‘Turn him to a starter he’s got the potential’: Darren Bent wants Pochettino to start Chelsea star in every game
Former Premier League striker Darren Bent expects Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino to put Romeo Lavia into his starting XI soon.
The Blues recently confirmed the signing of Romeo Lavia from Southampton, and there is a possibility that he could make his debut against West Ham United tomorrow.
Speaking on talkSPORT about Chelsea’s successful capture of Lavia and his two new team-mates Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, Bent said: “Good midfield three. I think he probably will [thrust Lavia in].
“For Chelsea, it’s a massive positive because they were up against Liverpool, who have been better than Chelsea of late you’d have to say.”
After letting the likes of N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic go, Chelsea’s midfield looks strong again following the arrivals of Lavia and Caicedo.
With Christopher Nkunku, whose best position is just behind the striker, currently out injured, it would not be a surprise to see Pochettino use a 4-3-3 formation instead of a 4-2-3-1.
If that happens, it could easily see Lavia come in to play alongside Fernandez and Caicedo.
If not, you would still expect the Belgian to get plenty of game time this season as the Blues’ third-choice midfielder. There are enough matches for Lavia to be rotated in and out of the side, while there will obviously be opportunities for him to come off from the bench as well.
All in all, after their midfield exodus, Lavia was a smart signing, with Manchester United legend Paul Scholes feeling that he has “so much potential”.
Chelsea supporters will now be hoping that they see that potential when Lavia dons the blue shirt for the first time, which could possibly be Sunday afternoon when the Blues travel to the London Stadium.
If not, then his debut could come next Friday when Chelsea welcome Luton Town to Stamford Bridge.