The way Chelsea lined up for their EFL Cup semi-final second leg certainly raised some eyebrows from supporters and pundits alike.
Despite Liam Rosenior never playing the system before since his move to Stamford Bridge, Chelsea came out at the Emirates with a back five, while Enzo Fernandez and Liam Delap operated on the wings.
It was clearly a plan to keep the Blues in the tie, and at half-time they were still just a goal away from forcing extra-time.
Is Liam Delap not good enough for Chelsea or are we not playing to his strengths?🤔
Liam Delap's display vs Arsenal
Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images
👇 Join the debate; share your insight. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say
The question marks over that early period of the game was the profiling of the wingers, particularly Delap. The Englishman looked uncomfortable attacking on the touchline.
Arsenal v Chelsea - Carabao Cup Semi Final Second Leg
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images
Gary Neville was right with very early Liam Delap criticism during Chelsea vs Arsenal
This was something that Sky Sports commentator Gary Neville noticed just two minutes into game, and he stated he could not see it working at such an early stage of the game.
He said: “I’m watching Delap on the right. He could go on to score and embarrass me, but I don’t see it personally. Doesn’t look a good fit.”
He was proven right with his comments, although this is really not Delap’s fault. It is clear he was not suited to the task being asked of him in attack.
The man who started up front, Joao Pedro, was arguably Chelsea’s best performer throughout the game. He more than held his own in the physical battle with Arsenal’s centre-backs.
Liam Rosenior v Arsenal.
Photo by Adrian Dennis / AFP via Getty Images
Rosenior’s other bizarre decisions
With the interesting starting XI picked by Rosenior, this meant there was no room in the starting side for either of Cole Palmer or Estevao Willian.
IN THE BLUE CORNER…
👇 Join the debate; share your insight. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say
Both were brought on as impact subs, however left with just half an hour to make an impact against the Premier League leaders.
Given the Gunners’ mixed form over the last few weeks, there will certainly be some Chelsea fans who will be left thinking they could have really had a go at the Emirates.
It wasn’t to be however, and Chelsea will have to look to the other two cup competitions for their chance at silverware this season.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox