Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo is part of manager Xabi Alonso’s plans for the season ahead (Daily Mail).
He started only eight Premier League games for Chelsea and looked poor at times.
Several Chelsea defenders didn’t really cover themselves in glory last season, but Adarabioyo was one of the worst.
Alonso is taking a big risk
Alonso is taking a significant gamble if he believes Adarabioyo can suddenly become a dependable figure in the heart of Chelsea’s defence.
Experience certainly has value in a young squad, but experience alone is meaningless if the performances are not at the required level.
Throughout last season, the 28-year-old looked short of the pace, composure and consistency needed to thrive for a club with Chelsea’s ambitions.
He was often caught out of position, struggled under pressure and failed to inspire confidence in those around him.
Every player deserves the chance to improve under a new manager, but Chelsea need defenders capable of challenging for major honours immediately.
Adarabioyo might be ‘special‘ on his day, but he hasn’t shown it yet for Chelsea.
Unless Adarabioyo produces a dramatic turnaround, the Blues would be far wiser to strengthen the position with a clear upgrade before the transfer window closes.
It is worth noting how co-director of recruitment and talent Joe Shields’ ex-Manchester City players are being shielded while players who performed better in their position are being sold.
Alejandro Garnacho was miles better than Jamie Gittens, but the former is on the market, while the Englishman gets a second chance.
Romeo Lavia is yet to complete 90 minutes for Chelsea, but Andrey Santos was sold ahead of him.
Trevoh Chalobah was mildly better than Adarabioyo and came from the youth ranks, but is being pushed out. It is a concerning pattern.
