After 10 games, the table is starting to shape up with Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea seemingly the title contenders. Midfield is often recognised as the place where a match can be won or lost, and in Chelsea’s case this is definitely true. Their midfield, which consists of Kovacic, Jorginho and Kante, has the perfect balance. Kovacic and Jorginho are both attacking minded players, while Kante provides protection for the defense. So far this season, N’golo Kante has averaged 1.9 tackles a game, as well as 0.9 interceptions in each set of 90 minutes. After watching him multiple times since 2016, it has become evident that Kante is one of the best players in his position. He has all the required characteristics to play the defensive midfield role; he can pass well, regain possession, he never stops running and he is tactically very good. Kovacic, who signed this summer from Real Madrid, is perhaps the weakest link in Chelsea’s midfield. However, he certainly contributes to their success on the pitch, and has massive quality. This season he has made 6 appearances, and has even grabbed himself an assist. Kovacic has pace, technical ability and a phenomenal passing range which has helped him release Hazard on multiple occasions this season. The last component to the midfield three, Jorginho, has been a key player tactically in Maurizio Sarri’s 4-3-3 formation. He has been allowed complete freedom to roam forward, while also anchoring the midfield at times. To preserve Giroud’s energy for counter-attacks which Chelsea has used very effectively this season, Jorginho has often been deployed as the furthest forward defender, a role which he is perfectly suited to. A very accurate player, he often plays short and precise passes, which either relieve the side of pressure, or puts his side in a great attacking position. Together, this midfield 3 is a combination which compliment each other perfectly, playing to one another’s strengths as well as weaknesses, and should help Chelsea win the league title this year.
Published in Daily Times, October 31st 2018.
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