Paul Merson believes Andrey Santos has been so impressive under Liam Rosenior that it is forcing Cole Palmer to play out of his best position.
Merson: “Unbelievable” Santos is Keeping Chelsea Star Out of Position
Since Rosenior took over at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea have won eight of their 11 games.
The form of several players has improved, but according to Merson, the Brazilian midfielder has been one of the biggest beneficiaries.
Speaking to Sports Keeda, Merson explained how Santos’s performances in the deep-lying role alongside Moises Caicedo have allowed Rosenior to push Enzo Fernandez further forward.
This tactical shift has pushed Cole Palmer out to the right wing.
“I like Palmer as a number 10. I think that’s his best position,” Merson admitted.
However, the pundit believes Rosenior cannot justify moving Palmer back inside right now.
“But Santos has been one of the best performers under Rosenior, so I don’t think Chelsea will change anything,” Merson added.
Santos struggled for minutes under former boss Enzo Maresca following his return from Strasbourg.
However, the arrival of Rosenior—who previously managed Santos at Strasbourg—has transformed the 20-year-old’s fortunes.
The £18m star now dictates the tempo of games from the base of midfield. His intelligence and positioning have caught the eye, with one observer noting he is “tactically smarter” than Caicedo, relying on defensive nous rather than rugged tackling to break up play.
Chelsea face Burnley at home on Saturday. Sitting fifth in the table, they host a side rooted in 19th place and nine points from safety. Merson backs the Blues to secure a comfortable 3-0 victory.
However, the former Arsenal star warns that this is a must-win fixture. After Burnley, Chelsea face a horrendous run of games against Arsenal, Aston Villa, Newcastle, Manchester City, and Manchester United before the season ends.
With Santos pulling the strings in midfield, Rosenior will hope his settled side can cruise past Scott Parker’s men before that tough run begins.
