Former Liverpool defender questions Tosin Adarabioyo’s performance in Brentford Vs Chelsea
Former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol has raised concerns about Chelsea’s defending in their 2-2 draw against Brentford on Saturday, singling out Tosin Adarabioyo’s role in the opening goal.
The 27-year-old centre-back, who joined Chelsea on a free transfer in the summer, failed to deal with a pass from Jordan Henderson in the 35th minute, allowing Kevin Schade to score for the hosts at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Chelsea hit back after the break with goals from Cole Palmer and Moisés Caicedo, but a late strike from Fábio Carvalho denied them all three points.
Speaking on ESPN FC, Nicol described Chelsea’s main weakness as the defensive triangle between goalkeeper Robert Sánchez and centre-backs Tosin and Trevoh Chalobah.
“The little triangle between the centre-backs Tosin, Chalobah, and the goalkeeper Sánchez is really where their weakness is,” Nicol said. “And we saw it with the first goal. Tosin failed to deal with Henderson’s cross, and that is going to cost them.”
The issue adds to the concerns of manager Enzo Maresca, who is already without England international Levi Colwill through injury. Tosin has been asked to step up in Colwill’s absence but has faced criticism for his performances.
Chelsea now turn their attention to the UEFA Champions League, where they face Bayern Munich. Maresca will be hoping for a stronger defensive display from his backline as the Blues look to build momentum in Europe.
