Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has again defended his deployment of N’Golo Kante in a more advanced midfield position this season.
The Blues boss has come under fire in recent weeks, with the World Cup winner perceived to be failing to replicate the level of performances that he has in recent seasons.
Kante has specialised in a deep-lying role during previous campaigns but Sarri has opted to utilise him as an all-action midfielder, operating just ahead of Jorginho following his move from Napoli in the summer.
This decision of the Italian’s was brought up once again during his pre-match press conference ahead of the Premier League clash against Manchester City on Saturday.
Sarri was quizzed about whether or not he is thinking of tweaking his tactical approach. He was, however, defiant in his answer and, as quoted by West London Sport, said:
The problem is only the results. When we won, the position of N’Golo was ‘good’. So it’s only down to the results. At the moment, we’re not winning so it’s normal that some players are playing very badly, some players are in the wrong position.
I explained why, usually, Kante plays in that position. I have my opinion. I can understand that you or someone else doesn’t agree. But I explained very well why.
Chelsea will be hoping that Kante can provide a typically impressive display in midfield when they come up against Pep Guardiola’s side.
