3 reasons why Willian must return to the Chelsea first team against Middlesbrough
With Chelsea set to face Middlesbrough on Sunday, Conte has a few very difficult decisions ahead of him…
After a few impressive results before the international break, Conte’s formation picks itself – but choosing the players themselves will no doubt be a slightly more difficult task for the Italian boss.
Granted, nobody that has played over the last few weeks necessarily deserves to be dropped – but there are a host of players on the fringes of the Chelsea first team that deserve a run-out.
One such player is Willian, who last season was Chelsea’s main man.
However, a family bereavement meant that he was allowed some time away from the club – and the team played so well in his absence that he has been unable to get back into the side.
This weekend, though, represents a chance for Conte to give Willian a run back in the first team – and he definitely should take that chance…
With that said, here are 3 reasons why Willian must return to the Chelsea first team against Middlesbrough…
Proven Quality
There is no doubt about it – Willian is one of Chelsea’s best players.
Last season, the Brazilian was the main reason why the club were not battling relegation – with a number of last minute goals and incredible free kicks saving the Blues’ blushes.
If he can play even half as well as he did last season then the Brazilian will continue to impress; with his quality clear for all to see.
He is one of Europe’s best – and deserves a chance to prove that.
Set-Piece Efficiency
Probably Willian’s best trait is his efficiency from free-kicks and corners – and in his absence, Chelsea often struggle.
Nobody in the Blues’ squad can deliver them so accurately and consistency – and that has cost the Blues a few chances to score over the last few weeks.
He is, of course, a threat from open play – but the quality that he brings from a set piece is unrivalled.
Pedro Inconsistency
Pedro has been excellent in place of Willian in recent weeks. You can’t doubt that.
However, you also can’t doubt that Pedro has been very disappointing since he joined the club last year – and he still cannot be relied upon.
Willian has been consistent in the past, and he needs a chance to prove that his consistency will continue this season.
Make it happen, Antonio.