Gus Poyet says Chelsea’s midfield problems will not be solved by regularly deploying full-backs Reece James and Gusto in central roles, arguing that neither player can make the switch into an “excellent midfielder” on a permanent basis.
Speaking to the British newspaper Metro, Poyet questioned Chelsea’s current approach after injuries and poor form left the club short of options in the middle of the pitch.
Chelsea have used right-backs in midfield, with James having previously been asked to operate centrally and Gusto now being used in a similar way. However, Poyet believes such an adjustment may work briefly during an individual match but cannot provide a long-term solution.
“After Caicedo’s injury, we don’t know what the outcome will be. As for Lavia – he’s not in good form right now, he’s often injured, often misses games, you can’t just find anyone to replace him.”
Poyet was referring to Moises Caicedo’s injury and the difficulties surrounding Romeo Lavia, who he says has struggled for form and availability. He also stressed that replacing a regular midfielder is not straightforward, particularly when a club is dealing with a shortage of suitable alternatives.
The former midfielder cited a notable example from Pep Guardiola’s time at Bayern, when Philipp Lahm was moved into a central position.
“I do remember one of the most impressive decisions was when Guardiola played Lahm in midfield at Bayern, which was big news at the time because Lahm certainly had the ability for it.”
Poyet accepted that James and Gusto possess qualities which allow them to contribute in midfield, but said their normal position creates a different set of demands. He argued that the move from full-back to central midfield requires more than technical ability.
“Chelsea previously did this withReece James, because they understood it was possible, and now Gusto is doing the same. But for a right-back to want to transition into an excellent midfielder? Absolutely impossible.”
He added: “Full-backs are naturally accustomed to operating on the flanks, whether on the right or left, and no one attacks from that side because there’s wing protection. Now, when you play in midfield, opponents come from all directions, and the level of each player is different.”
According to Poyet, a full-back may be able to cope with the role for a limited period, but the demands become greater when the experiment is repeated from match to match.
“So, yes, they can play 20 minutes in midfield in one game, but they can’t play there consistently, and now we see Chelsea playing a right-back in midfield every game.”
Poyet also questioned why Chelsea would need to depend on such a makeshift solution, given the club’s resources and status.
“This is Chelsea – we’re not talking about a club in the fourth division that simply can’t sign players, so, yes, it’s a bit strange, and I don’t think it’s ideal.”
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