“He’s working well in training” “I think he needs to start” – Enzo Maresca plans to start Chelsea man for the first time against Liverpool
Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s manager, must make some important decisions ahead of the team’s match against Liverpool this weekend. Many of Chelsea’s top players are now on international duty, giving several of them the opportunity to shine and establish their claims for more regular starting roles.
International Standouts
Christopher Nkunku is one player who has continued to shine. He took his good club form to the international scene with France, scoring a spectacular goal and solidifying his position as a key player for both club and country.
Meanwhile, Mykhailo Mudryk has also delivered solid performances during the international break, raising questions for Maresca as to whether he should feature more prominently when they face Liverpool at Anfield.
Key Midfielders Returning Late
Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo, Chelsea’s first-choice central midfielders, will return to training later than most, as their international duties stretch into the early hours of Wednesday morning. Given their tight schedule and the toll it could take, Maresca may need to explore other midfield options for the upcoming match.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall: The Ideal Replacement?
This could open the door for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to make his first Premier League start for Chelsea. The English midfielder has been training closely with Maresca and the non-international players, receiving more focused attention and tactical instructions over the past week.
Dewsbury-Hall made a strong case for inclusion in Chelsea’s recent Conference League match against Gent, where he not only played well but also scored his first goal for the club. The joy on Maresca’s face after that goal was a telling sign of the strong bond between the two. It’s clear that Dewsbury-Hall was brought in to understand and execute Maresca’s game plan on the pitch.
Dewsbury-Hall for Fernandez?
With Fernandez likely to be fatigued after his international duties, Dewsbury-Hall seems to be the best candidate to step in and provide fresh legs in midfield. While Romeo Lavia is also nearing full fitness, it would be unwise for Chelsea to rush him back into action after a lengthy layoff.
As Maresca prepares for the crucial Liverpool clash, Dewsbury-Hall could be the surprise inclusion who helps Chelsea put in a strong performance at Anfield.