Maresca backs Fernandez to regain form and explains his importance to Chelsea | OneFootball

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has thrown his weight behind midfielder Enzo Fernandez despite his recent dip in form.

The Blues have taken just eight points from their opening five games, but a plethora of injuries has rocked their campaign.

Several players, including Fernandez, have suffered a dip in form.

He has been singled out for a few below-par performances, although he has bagged two goals and an assist in five Premier League games.

Fernandez has also created one big chance and averages 1.2 key passes per 90 minutes.

However, his numbers have masked a few uninspiring performances. Most recently, his misplaced crossfield pass led to Lincoln City’s opener in Tuesday’s League Cup third round fixture.

Chelsea came from behind to win 2-1 thanks to goals from academy graduate Tyrique George and Facundo Buonanotte, but Fernandez’s subdued display was a huge talking point.

Maresca has explained why the midfielder is experiencing a dip in form. He believes that it’s down to fatigue rather than a lack of quality.

“Enzo [Fernandez] can play in different positions for us,” Maresca said in his pre-match media briefing.

“He can play as a six or as an attacking midfielder. We have used him in 90% of our games as an attacking midfielder, and I think he is very good in this position.

“The reason why he can have good or bad moments is because of the number of games.

“For any player, it’s impossible to think that you can play 45 games – or the 64 games we played last season – all at the same level.

“It’s normal that you drop in some games, but we are very happy with Enzo.”

Fernandez has started every game for Chelsea this season, racking up 590 minutes on the pitch.

That’s more than any of his Chelsea teammates except Trevoh Chalobah (690 mins). Last season, only Marc Cucurella played more games across all competitions for Chelsea (54) than Fernandez (53).

Fernandez is expected to start this weekend’s clash against Brighton & Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge.