'One day, we want to move the central defenders' - Chelsea coach offers hope to Tosin

Speaking at the pre-match press conference before his side's visit to Leicester City, Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has provided a glimmer of hope to defender Tosin Adarabioyo, hinting at potential tactical rotations among the central defenders in the future.

The 27-year-old center-back joined Chelsea from Fulham in the summer but has struggled to secure regular playing time amidst intense competition.

Tosin, a Manchester City academy product, has made just four Premier League appearances for Chelsea, with only two starts. 

His limited role stems from Maresca’s preference for Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana, who have been mainstays in the Blues' backline.

Ahead of Chelsea's return to Premier League action this weekend against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium, Maresca addressed the situation in his pre-match press conference.

He acknowledged the challenges of maintaining balance in the squad while shedding light on tactical adjustments that could benefit players like Tosin. 

"We changed full-backs with the way we want to play because we use the fullbacks a lot, we don't move the central defenders," Maresca told reporters.

"Hopefully, one day we can start to move the central defenders. But in this moment we are moving the fullbacks and probably this is the reason why we are changing then."

The Italian coach emphasized the importance of a cohesive team approach to defending, hinting at potential changes to ensure fair distribution of minutes among defenders.

"It is not just about the defenders, the way we press, and we defend together," he added.

Despite his limited involvement, Tosin will be hopeful of breaking into the starting lineup. 

His exclusion from international duty during the break provides him with fresh legs and an opportunity to impress against Leicester.

Chelsea, currently third in the Premier League table with 19 points, have found their form after a shaky start to the season. 

The Blues trail league leaders Liverpool by nine points, making every game crucial in their pursuit of closing the gap.

Adeyemi Adewale

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