Chelsea’s backline test as Maresca looks beyond Colwill for options
Chelsea face a growing defensive crisis.
Maresca has asked for a replacement for Levi Colwill.
The club says there are no suitable defenders on the market.
It is up to Maresca to find internal solutions.
He can call on Josh Acheampong.
Acheampong impressed against Crystal Palace on the opening weekend.
The 19 year old started with Colwill out and Tosin Adarabioyo briefly unavailable.
Adarabioyo may return for Friday night at West Ham.
Still there is a case to give Acheampong another chance next to Trevoh Chalobah.
Acheampong counts Manchester City among his suitors.
He stood up to Jean Philippe Mateta in the goalless draw with Palace.
Now the question is whether he can cope as a central centre back when Chelsea morph into a back three in possession.
Replacing Colwill long passing will not be easy.
Yet Maresca has options to shape a compact plan.
West Ham at Chelsea on Friday night eight BST.
Manchester City host Tottenham on Saturday at 12.30pm.
Brentford host Aston Villa on Saturday at 3pm.
Burnley host Sunderland on Saturday at 3pm.
Bournemouth host Wolves on Saturday at 3pm.
From the south coast it all feels like a weather system with no forecast for mercy.
The practical truth remains the same, despite the drama and the noise around names.
- Maresca cannot find a market replacement for Colwill.
- Acheampong might become a central option alongside Chalobah.
- Chelsea faces tough fixtures and a stubborn tactical reality.
Levi Colwill
Chelsea