Liverpool legend says Chelsea now have their own Van Dijk And Alisson
According to Liverpool legend John Barnes believes the additions of Thiago Silva and Edouard Mendy to Chelsea’s squad could have a similar effect to when the Reds signed Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker.
The Blues had struggled defensively under manager Frank Lampard, even at the start of this season before Silva and Mendy were introduced into the first team. However, Barnes says the pair have brought a calming presence to the backline:
“Both Thiago Silva and Mendy have given the Chelsea team confidence. Regardless of their ability, they have come in and settled everyone’s nerves – like when Virgil van Dijk and Allison came to Liverpool a few seasons ago.”
“They are great players, but everyone became more confident because of their presence and given the whole squad a sense of security and they are showing what they can do. Thiago has that same presence at the back for Chelsea and you can see what it has done for the other defenders alongside him.”
The two summer signings have certainly had an instant impact on the team. Mendy, in particular, has been a revelation so far, having conceded just two goals and kept six clean sheets in only eight appearances since his £22m move from Rennes.
Silva had a less assured start, making a mistake and seeing his side concede three goals on his debut in the 3-3 draw against West Brom. However, since then, Chelsea have let in just one goal in his seven appearances.