Chelsea fans across the world are debating whether Chelsea’s poor performance in the 2-1 EFL Cup loss to West Ham should mean that John Terry does not return to the team for Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Southampton.
It can’t be denied that Chelsea’s new system just didn’t function as well with Terry in the back three. Not only did the Englishman not look comfortable alongside Gary Cahill and David Luiz, he made them look shaky too. Not only that, but he forced Cesar Azpilicueta from centre back (where he had been excelling) to right wing back, where his lack of real quality on the ball, especially high up the pitch, became an issue.
Some fans argue that Conte should play to the strengths of Terry, who is his best defender. Others say that the needs of even a club legend like Terry must be secondary to the needs of the team. Whatever Antonio Conte decides to do, it will be fascinating.
