25 Aug 2021 07:35:08
Exciting time indeed being a Chelsea fan, but I have been thinking if the Coach could look to go back to a back 4 to accommodate one of our attackers. I'll love something like a 442 diamond with;
Mendy
James Kounde (If he comes) Rudiger Chilwell
Kante
Ziyech Mount
Havertz
Werner Lukaku
With pulisic and the others doing rotation where needed, I feel we would be stronger playing Werner and Lukaku up top, what do you guys think, I'll like to hear your opinion too Eds01.

{Ed001's Note - I am surprised you would go with Rudiger in a back-4. I always think his lack of positional sense is far more of a problem when in a 4. That is probably the one weakness in the Chelsea squad, the lack of a genuine left-sided centre-back. Someone who is truly comfortable there, as I never get the feeling Rudiger is happy there really.}

1.) 25 Aug 2021
25 Aug 2021 08:15:21
Ed, I remember Rudiger saying he prefers playing as the LCB, but only in a back 3.

{Ed001's Note - back 3 is totally different, you don't need to be as positionally strong and, most importantly, on the ball you normally get more time to switch it onto your dominant foot.}

2.) 25 Aug 2021
25 Aug 2021 09:08:26
Been saying for ages Rudiger lacks a sat nav bit to be fair I agree with Ed that’s in a back four and he has been playing very well in a three.

A natural left footed CH would be a fantastic addition to our squad but it’s not going to happen in this window.

3.) 25 Aug 2021
25 Aug 2021 10:18:11
Ed001
Have you any idea what was responsible for Saul drop in form and why Athletico want rid of him?
Presumably if he was at his peak his wages wouldn't be an issue and he wouldn't be on the market?
Thanks.

{Ed001's Note - Atletico simply can't afford his wages and to stay within the La Liga cap.}

4.) 25 Aug 2021
25 Aug 2021 10:36:52
I think we won't see a back 4 often this season, because that raises lots of problems for us.
I agree about Roudiger and I think Christensen doesn't do very well in a back 4 as well.

5.) 25 Aug 2021
25 Aug 2021 11:21:51
Thanks Ed001 I meant to post that below on the Saul thread.
Have you any idea what led to his drastic drop in form in the last 18 months?
As an example some have said he lost his confidence which led to a bad drop in his form, but not why.

{Ed001's Note - I have no idea, I have not seen any evidence of that. I was under the impression he was in and out of the team due to money, with appearance fees being high.}

6.) 25 Aug 2021
25 Aug 2021 11:32:34
Kounde is apparently just as comfortable with his left so he could be the LCB surely?

7.) 25 Aug 2021
25 Aug 2021 11:49:36
This is high praise indeed fuser but he is a bit like JT, comfortable with with either foot but predominantly right footed.

He is very cool under pressure not afraid to take risks and not afraid to take people on plus he ain’t slow.

8.) 25 Aug 2021
25 Aug 2021 11:51:26
Ed001
I have just read an article in which he says he has been struggling mentally for a while, but no reason mentioned.
He then says that this has manifested itself as a lack of confidence on the field and consequent loss of form.
He also mentions people not helping the situation without being specific.
Sounds like he will need to rebuild his confidence and form wherever he goes which makes him a risky signing If AM insist on a commitment to buy after a loan.

{Ed001's Note - sounds like he needs a move to me.}

9.) 25 Aug 2021
25 Aug 2021 13:58:04
3 or 5 in the back is a longer term strategic decision by TT and Chelsea.