Andrey Santos played a key role in Chelsea’s 2-0 win against Burnley at Turf Moor on Saturday.
The midfielder came in for Moises Caicedo, whom Enzo Maresca decided to rest following all of the travelling that he had to do during the international break.
Caicedo has arguably been Chelsea’s best player this season, but the Blues were able to get the job done on Saturday without him.
Who was your player of the match vs Burnley?
Last week, Santos spoke about Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, sharing that he is learning a lot from the pair. However, they are not the only ones who have been helping the Brazilian since his return to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia about to play a pass
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Andrey Santos also learning from Romeo Lavia
Following Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Burnley, Santos once again acknowledged the roles of Caicedo and Fernandez in his development. But as well as the South American duo, the 21-year-old has also been picking up things from Romeo Lavia despite all of his injury problems.
Speaking to Chelsea’s official club website after the game, Santos said: “Every day I learn something from Moises, Enzo and Romeo Lavia. Our team is like a family and we help each other every day, and I’m so happy to play with all of them.”
With Lavia expected to be out for a month, there could be more opportunities for Santos in Chelsea’s upcoming fixtures.
The Brazil international is not the only option for the Club World Cup winners, though. Maresca can also use Reece James in midfield while Malo Gusto starts at right-back.
James was taken off at half-time at Turf Moor, but his substitution was planned ahead of Chelsea’s clash against Barcelona on Tuesday.
Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos with the ball
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Andrey Santos could replace Romeo Lavia
Under Maresca, Lavia has been Chelsea’s third-choice midfielder behind Caicedo and Fernandez. However, that role could soon go to Santos.
Unfortunately for Lavia, the Belgian is just not able to stay fit right now, while Santos was excellent against Burnley. It was a game that Lavia probably would have played had he not been injured.
According to Sofascore, Santos made five interceptions at Turf Moor, the most in the match.
Hopefully Lavia returns soon and can remain fit. If not, Santos seems capable enough of filling in for him.