Opinion

I watched Trevoh Chalobah’s Chelsea homecoming vs Wolves, here’s why he can be the perfect solution for Enzo Maresca

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While Chelsea were returning to winning ways at Stamford Bridge last night, one player in particular enjoyed a very special evening in a Blue shirt.

After it seemed to many as if his career at the club was over, Trevoh Chalobah was thrown straight into the starting side for the Blues last night in the 3-1 victory against Wolves.

The Blues were missing key centre-back Levi Colwill, however any worries were quickly reassured when Chelsea fans saw exactly what they had been missing in the Englishman’s first game back.

Chelsea FC v Wolverhampton Wanderers FC - Premier League
Photo by Jack Thomas – WWFC/Wolves via Getty Images

Trevoh Chalobah proves he is the answer to Chelsea’s defensive woes in win vs Wolves

Noni Madueke was full of praise for Chalobah after the game, with the winger nodding home on the line what looked a certain goal on his return to the side.

Enzo Maresca previously said that he had better options than Chalobah to compete for minutes this season, however now he has half a season to judge for himself in the Premier League whether that is the case.

The manager is without Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile for a prolonged period of time, and reportedly is not keen on starting Axel Disasi at centre-back.

This has severely limited his options at the back, with academy graduate Josh Acheampong starting twice in the Premier League in recent weeks.

It has been reported that Chelsea are intrigued by the idea of signing a new centre-back this month, with the likes of Marc Guehi being mentioned as potential options.

However, it looks as if they had an answer already on their books, with Maresca now having the chance to utilise him further.

Chelsea FC v Wolverhampton Wanderers FC - Premier League
Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images

Trevoh Chalobah stats in Chelsea vs Wolves

Chalobah’s performance against Wolves proved he is more than capable of filling that void, with him having an excellent performance both on the ball and doing his job as a defender.

Trevoh Chalobah vs WolvesTotal
Minutes90
Assists1
Accurate passes79/82
Defensive actions12
Duels won6
Dribbled past0

What is notable from these stats is how good he was in possession, hardly misplacing a pass and frequently getting involved in the attacks.

Given how Chelsea lineup under Maresca, it is not uncommon to find defenders in unique positions. This was proven by Marc Cucurella popping up in the six yard box to give them the lead again.

It feels likely that Chalobah will start again against Manchester City at the weekend, with the Blues now preparing for their biggest game of the season.