The heart of Chelsea’s midfield was entirely dismantled during the summer transfer window. Key figures Enzo Fernandez and Andrey Santos were sold to Manchester City and Manchester United respectively, while a deadline-day move for Monaco’s Lamine Camara collapsed at the final hurdle.
Former Premier League striker Murray noted that Alonso has been forced to use full-backs like Reece James and Malo Gusto in central areas. Against Brentford, a 36-year-old Jordan Henderson partnered summer arrival Valentin Barco.
“I think when Xabi Alonso brings on the young boy Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli at 16 when you’re 2-0 down, that is a message to the board that you don’t have enough in midfield with Santos and Fernandez leaving in the transfer window,” Murray stated.
“It’s a big blind spot for them, they have had right-backs playing in the centre of midfield on a few occasions, today they have two natural midfielders in but bringing the 16-year-old was a big message.”