Ben Chilwell finally sealed a move away from Chelsea in the last moments of the winter transfer window by joining Crystal Palace on loan for the rest of the season.
It was crucial that Ben Chilwell, 28, moved to a new club because he’s been on the fringes of the Chelsea squad this campaign. Finally, the experienced left-back made the move to Premier League rivals Palace on Monday’s deadline day.
Palace supporters have reacted to Chilwell’s arrival at Selhurst Park in a positive fashion because he’ll provide competition for Tyrick Mitchell at left wing-back.
Even though the defender’s career has stalled recently, he’s still a high-profile player with a lot of experience at both club and international level.
Joe Cole and Michael Owen agree on Ben Chilwell’s move to Crystal Palace
Joe Cole believes that Chilwell’s loan move to Selhurst Park is a superb bit of business for everyone.
He told the Premier League’s official website: “Massive move for him. He’s been in that situation where he got put on a long contract. He broke down with injuries and all of a sudden you’re surplus to requirements…
“It’s a good move for him to get out there and play games of football. I think the way Palace play with wing-backs will suit him down to the ground. I think he’s a really talented boy. I think he’ll kick on and it’ll play very well. I think it sorts every party involved.”
Similarly, Michael Owen thinks that Palace is a great option for the Chelsea-owned defender as he looks to start playing regularly again.
Owen completely agreed on the same video about Chilwell’s transfer. He said: “Absolutely, couldn’t agree more. Perfect fit. Perfect for everybody… I think this is a good signing.”
Borussia Dortmund looked at Chelsea full-back Chilwell in January, but he’s ended up staying put in the Premier League by signing for Palace on loan. Ultimately, the aim for the player is to play football because he’s only made one appearance so far this season after being frozen out by Blues head coach Enzo Maresca.
There’s a lot of responsibility on Marc Cucurella
Marc Cucurella is shining in his role as Chelsea’s first-choice left-back this season, but it does feel like the team are one injury away from a real problem.
Chilwell completed his temporary switch to Palace for the rest of the season. Also, Renato Veiga left Chelsea to join Juventus on loan.
Hopefully, Cucurella can stay injury free because the 26-year-old star is the only senior left-back in the squad right now. The alternative options include playing Malo Gusto or Levi Colwill out of position on the left of defence.
Blues prospect Ishe Samuels-Smith, 18, is a promising left-back in the academy that provides a more natural fit.
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