Chelsea staggered to a 2-1 win over Copenhagen in Denmark and will hold a one-goal advantage when they welcome them to Stamford Bridge next week for the second leg of their Europa Conference League clash.
The Blues tried to draw a disciplined Copenhagen side out but failed spectacularly, especially in the first half when they only managed a shot on target.
However, Chelsea captain Reece James gave the Blues the lead via a long-range strike before Enzo Fernandez doubled their advantage after coming on from the bench. Copenhagen made the ending tricky with a late goal, but Chelsea ultimately secured the victory.
Several Chelsea players were guilty of being ineffective, especially in the first half, none more so than midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
The summer signing from Leicester City failed to impose himself on the game. The Chelsea midfielder completed only 26/35 (71%) passes and failed with his two long ball attempts. Despite recording 41 touches, he rarely did anything of note with it.
Dewsbury-Hall was dribbled past twice, lost possession 11 times, and won only three of his six ground duels. He did not give Chelsea any penetration from midfield.
His awful performance led to a 4/10 fromFootball London. They blasted Dewsbury-Hall, saying, “Pressed well, but on the ball, it was not good enough.”
Many raised eyebrows when Chelsea shelled out £30 million to sign Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester over the summer with the array of midfield talents at their disposal. Those detractors have been proven right.
Chelsea should seriously consider cutting their losses and moving Dewsbury-Hall on in the summer.
His performances have consistently failed to justify the hefty price tag, and with Chelsea already boasting a stacked midfield, his presence feels more like an unnecessary burden than a valuable asset.
If the Blues want to progress and compete at the highest level, they cannot afford passengers in key areas of the pitch. Selling Dewsbury-Hall would free up space and funds for a more dynamic and impactful player who can make a difference.
(Stats from Sofascore)