One Chelsea player has just admitted that he prefers it when he’s playing more centrally on the football pitch.
Chelsea certainly have plenty of quality options to play through the middle, particularly when you’re looking at possible No 10s or strikers.
Blues head coach Enzo Maresca can choose from the likes of Christopher Nkunku, Cole Palmer, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall or Carney Chukwuemeka to play as an advanced midfielder.
Speaking via Football.London a few days ago, Maresca admitted Nkunku’s one Chelsea player impressing him. The first-team star scored the opening goal of the Maresca reign during the 2-2 draw against Wrexham in a pre-season friendly.
Christopher Nkunku likes playing centrally
Chelsea attacker Nkunku prefers operating in central areas, whether that’s as a No 10 or a centre-forward.
The £52m Frenchman (BBC) looked a danger as an advanced midfielder during his first 45 minutes under Maresca. He’s certainly an individual to keep a close eye on as pre-season progresses.
“I don’t feel like I have a favourite position because if I play striker, I like to move, I like to play, and I like to fill the space,” Nkunku said via Chelsea’s official app (26 July).
“It’s about being dangerous. I prefer being involved in the centre of the game instead of being down one side. I try to participate in every situation for the team.”
Chelsea need Christopher Nkunku in and around the penalty box
There’s an argument for saying that Nkunku is the most natural finisher in the current Chelsea squad. He’s at least in that conversation alongside sensational teammate Palmer.
Nkunku’s wish to play centrally should become a reality when you see the way that Maresca usually sets up. The only concern should be around how you fit him, Palmer and Nicolas Jackson in the same starting XI.
Nkunku does bring an extra bit of composure when it comes to goalscoring, which is why he netted 70 goals in 172 RB Leipzig matches.
READ MORE: Christopher Nkunku shares what Chelsea have been practicing in training under Enzo Maresca
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