Enzo Maresca's brilliant message to Chelsea captain Reece James that solved big problem at Liverpool
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One of the positives from Chelsea’s game against Liverpool was the return of Reece James, who rejoined the team for the first time this season. This meant Malo Gusto, who is traditionally a right back, was deployed at left back but given the freedom to move into midfield.
At the start of the game, Reece James was tested by powerful runs from Cody Gakpo, who always looked to take on the Chelsea captain. This was likely an attempt to isolate him and test his fitness, given he has been out for a long time.
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Hide AdManager Maresca realised that Liverpool was consistently trying to isolate his captain, so he called James over and tasked him with marking the space. This strategy forced Gakpo to use his weaker foot, easing the pressure on James. In the first half, James played on the side of the Chelsea manager, who was constantly sending messages to him.
He lasted 50 minutes before being substituted for Renato Veiga in what appeared to be a preplanned move.
In the game itself, Liverpool, who dominated the first half, took the lead after the referee awarded them a penalty kick following a foul by Colwill. Mohamed Salah scored, but Nicolas Jackson responded for Chelsea before Curtis Jones scored the winning goal for Liverpool.
Chelsea manager Maresca attempted to respond by making three substitutions to try to rescue at least a point. Pedro Neto came close, as did substitute Christopher Nkunku, but in the end, Liverpool held on for what was an important win for the hosts.
The result turned Chelsea's good start into a decent one, but they will be happy that their captain is back and produced a solid performance to show for it.
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