According to a recent report by the Daily Star, Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is planning to drop the Pensioners skipper Cesar Azpilicueta from his first-team when Reece James returns from his latest injury setback after the international break. The same source has mentioned that Lampard is hoping to replace the Spanish full-back to promote some of his other younger talents at Stamford Bridge.
Azpilicueta’s Form Has Taken A Significant Dip In Recent Seasons
The Pensioners captain has struggled to find consistency with his performances on the pitch this season. Azpilicueta has looked a bit vulnerable in defence of late while his impact inside the opposition half has also diminished significantly over the past few years.
The West London outfit would be better off introducing some competition for the veteran defender, so Reece James fits the bill perfectly. Azpilicueta has made five appearances for Chelsea this term and has one assist to his name across all competitions.
The former Osasuna talent is also vastly experienced at the international level, having played for Spain in 25 matches. However, he has not opened his goal-scoring account for his nation. The 30-year-old is about to embark upon the twilight years of his playing career, so maybe, its high time he settled for a spot on Lampard’s bench (yes this is an argument which might not be popular but might need to be made anyway).
However, no veteran player wants to assume a limited role. Hence, it will be interesting to see whether Lampard eases Azpilicueta out of his first-team or whether it would be a more immediate change following James’ return.
Does Azpilicueta Deserve His First-Team Spot At Stamford Bridge?
The Spaniard has a lot of experience of playing at the highest level and brings a calming influence to the Chelsea dressing room. The Pensioners right-back is far from the attacking force he was in his younger days, but he can still be a very reliable defender at the back. However, the fact remains that Azpilicueta has lost a yard of pace and can be a liability against a pacey winger out on the wide areas.
The Pamplona-born defensive ace has been a loyal servant for the West London club since joining them from Olympique Marseille in the summer of 2012. Hence, the Pensioners owe it to him to keep giving him a chance as long as he is proving his worth on the field. Besides, Lampard probably has bigger problems to solve than this.
