Branislav Ivanovic failing to deliver at Right Back for Chelsea

Branislav Ivanovic of Chelsea holds off Adam Szalai of Schalke during the UEFA Champions League Group E match between Chelsea and FC Schalke 04 at Stamford Bridge.

In recent games the statistics show that although Ivanovic gets in great positions as an attacking right back he is struggling at the moment due to terrible distribution.

I love Brana but his crossing has not been pretty recently and the stats back this up so far he has attempted 47 crosses in Premier League this season, completing just 8.

I have always preferred him as a centre back particularly in games where Terry is not playing as he offers that no nonsense body on the line approach at the back and from set pieces that can change a game.

Solutions

So whilst Azpilicueta may be enjoying battling for a spot at left back maybe it is time to switch him back to his natural wing.

I think defensively Brana is stronger and I can understand why he has maintained a position as the number one right back, he is a beast which is why we love him.

However in a 4-3-3 against teams like West Brom we also need attacking penetration to give us options and this extends beyond getting into good positions but also converting them via accurate crosses that can put the ball in dangerous areas.

I think on his natural side Azilicueta could be a better option and when Cole wins back his place he deserves an opportunity to prove himself on the right.

What Do You Think

Branislav Ivanovic is a hero of mine in the Chelsea team but in recent weeks he has not been effective going forward.

Is it time against weaker opposition to give Dave a crack instead?