Calum McFarlane made bold call against Leeds that really paid off for Chelsea

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Calum McFarlane made some brave decisions in Chelsea’s FA Cup semi-final against Leeds United at Wembley on Sunday.

McFarlane left Cole Palmer out of the side despite the attacking midfielder recovering from injury, while Jorrel Hato was dropped from the starting XI.

Nevertheless, Chelsea were still able to win 1-0 and progress to the final, where they will play Manchester City.

DISCUSS: Sanchez should be Chelsea’s no.1 next season…

Calum McFarlane is a big fan.

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• READ MORE: What Reece James did to Calum McFarlane at the end of Chelsea’s win vs Leeds

Tosin Adarabioyo and Jorrel Hato swap worked out perfectly in FA Cup semi-final

One reason why Chelsea were able to beat Leeds was because of how well they defended. Hato has probably been their best player of late, but the Dutchman dropping down to the bench and being replaced by Tosin Adarabioyo did not hurt the team.

It was a bold call, but McFarlane explained why he made it, and in the end, it actually benefited Chelsea.

McFarlane wanted more height in the side, hence Adarabioyo getting the nod to start at Wembley. The 28-year-old did not disappoint.

According to Sofascore, the central defender won seven out of the eight aerial duels he contested.

Adarabioyo also made 11 clearances. In total, he finished the game with 12 defensive contributions, more than any other player.

Tosin Adarabioyo gets too much hate!

Had Dominic Calvert-Lewin in his back pocket 💪

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Adarabioyo struggled in Chelsea’s 3-1 defeat to Leeds back in December, while his form has not been great this season. It is why starting him on Sunday was a bit of a risk, but it proved to be a masterstroke in the end.

Tosin Adarabioyo can play an important role between now and end of season

Adarabioyo has had a very small role this term. For example, in the Premier League, he has only made seven starts.

However, between now and the conclusion of the campaign, the former Fulham man could become an important asset to the team.

With Chelsea not in a position where they can afford to drop any more points from winning positions, Adarabioyo coming on towards the end of games and using his height to deal with long balls and set pieces could be crucial.

His tall frame may also come in handy if Chelsea find themselves in the lead in the FA Cup final against City. Again, bringing him on could help them to see out the match as City go more direct.