They play in different positions, but Branislav Ivanovic and Filipe Luis still have a fight for the place, and it looks like the former is winning.
Cesar Azpilicueta is a versatile footballer who can play both left back and right back. Unfortunately we only have one Azpilicueta, so somebody must fill the void at the opposite end of the pitch.
Branislav Ivanovic signed for Chelsea back in January 2008, and has since been deployed as a right back and centre back by various managers. Last season, however, he nailed down the right back spot for the season under Mourinho.
Filipe Luis was a more recent purchase, signing from Atletico Madrid in the summer. He was widely regarded as the best left back in the world last season, so you have to feel that at 29 years of age his ÂŁ15.8m price tag was about right.
Ivanovic is a more defensively secure option for Mourinho, but after the Portuguese gave him the nod he has proved his goalscoring ability as well, scoring two goals in three appearances so far.
Filipe Luis is what is now considered a modern full back, bombing forward at every invitation. He came on for Eden Hazard in Chelsea’s nervy 6-3 victory over Everton, impressing with a solid challenge by the corner flag.
Only time will tell which player prevails, but Ivanovic seems to be in the driving seat at the present moment. Don’t be surprised, although, if Filipe Luis forces his way into the side and pushes Azpilicueta to full back.
This is a wonderful dilemma for manager Jose Mourinho, alongside Willlian or Schurrle and Courtois or Cech.
Who do you think should start at fullback?Â
A) Filipe Luis & Branislav Ivanovic
B) Cesar Azpilicueta &Â Branislav Ivanovic
C) Filipe Luis & Cesar Azpilicueta
Let us know in the comments.Â
