Mauricio Pochettino has big plans for N’Golo Kante in the Chelsea team next season, according to reports.
The Mirror claims Chelsea will finally appoint Mauricio Pochettino as their new manager this week after a lot of speculation.
It is understood the Argentine coach is already planning how he wants the team to line up under him next season, which includes playing with a back four.
Interestingly, the report says that Pochettino views N’Golo Kante as ‘pivotal’ in the system he wants to use. The 32-year-old Blues star could be used as a midfield screen to help protect the defence.
Kante’s current deal at Stamford Bridge is due to expire at the end of the season, but speculation points towards him extending his stay in West London.
The Telegraph recently claimed that Pochettino’s potential appointment as the Chelsea manager next season could be a key factor in Kante signing a contract extension.
The £30million midfielder (BBC) admires Pochettino and could link up with him next year.
We have no doubts that Kante can still offer plenty to this starting line-up.
Unfortunately, the concern surrounding him now is over his fitness.
The energetic central midfielder has recovered well from his latest long-term injury that meant he missed a large chunk of this season, but it’s becoming a common theme that he picks up injury setbacks every year.
The report above suggests Pochettino plans to start Kante in his best XI, but can his body still hold up over the course of a full season?
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