Why Luiz move makes sense

​​​​​​​The adventurous defender may seem an odd fit for Antonio Conte’s highly-structured approach but David Luiz’s return to Chelsea makes sense for player and club, writes Peter Smith…

Earlier this month Gary Cahill was asked about Antonio Conte’s methods. “He’s added organisation and a lot of discipline,” said the defender. “Players know exactly what their role should be at each individual time they’re on the pitch.”

It’s an approach the Italian manager has become known for; Conte maps out each player’s duties in detailed and intense tactics-based training sessions.

So the £30m purchase of free-wheeling Brazil centre-back David Luiz seems an odd one. But despite his reputation for reckless and erratic decision-making, the 29-year-old could be an ideal solution to Chelsea’s problems. Here’s why…

Lack of centre-back options

Chelsea boss Conte complained last week about a lack of defensive options and, with only John Terry and Cahill currently available as recognised centre-backs with significant Premier League experience, there was a real chance of the Italian facing a crisis in his backline should either of the pair suffer injury or suspension.

Kurt Zouma remains sidelined with his long-term knee injury, while Matt Miazga seems a long way from the first-team. Full-backs Cesar Azpilicueta and Branislav Ivanovic could fill-in but the situation was far from ideal.

Chelsea have previously made moves for AC Milan’s Alessio Romagnoli and Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly this summer and the west London side were also linked with Juventus duo Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini. However, by eventually landing Luiz on Deadline Day they have bolstered a key …

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