Enzo Maresca has said he sees Ben Chilwell as a left back but admitted the situation is “delicate” in terms of finding the right position for him.
The Blues have endured a difficult start to their pre-season tour of America having drawn their first match against Wrexham before losing their second 4-1 to Celtic.
Maresca will be hoping to see an improvement this week with Chelsea set to take on both Club America and Manchester City as preparations for the new season continue to gather speed.
Chilwell’s situation delicate
Naturally it’s going to take time for the squad to adapt to Maresca’s style, with many of the players being asked to play in a way they haven’t before.
The upcoming season is massive for Chilwell given the injury issues he’s been plagued by over the last few seasons, but there have been questions marks surrounding his future amid fears he doesn’t suit Maresca’s style of play.
The 27-year-old featured against Wrexham, but didn’t get on the pitch against Celtic in what could perhaps be a telling sign the Italian doesn’t see him as a major part of his plans.
The 44-year-old likes the fullback to be able to invert into midfield, and speaking before the Club America game Maresca stated the situation with the Champions League winner was “delicate” in terms of trying to find the right position for him.
‘Chilly is a left-back, for sure, I see him as I’ve always seen him like a left full-back,” he told reporters.
“His situation is a bit delicate in terms of we are trying to find a solution for him in terms of position, but he probably needs a bit of time.
“Delicate in terms of finding the right position for him.”
It will be interesting to see if Chilwell features against Club America and how Maresca plans on using him next season, but it has been reported the club are open to selling him if an acceptable offer comes in.
