3 changes Sarri needs to make for Chelsea to finish in the top 4

3) The LB position:

Emerson should replace Alonso at left-back

Marcus Alonso’s defensive abilities (or lack thereof) have been time and again exploited by the opponents this season and though the Spaniard started off quite strongly, he has been really poor in recent times.

Antonio Conte overcame his vulnerabilities by playing him in the wing-back role in the 5-man defense. However, Sarri’s fluid 4-3-3 system requires the full-backs to constantly overlap and track-back sooner.

Alonso’s lack of pace and lack of positional awareness demands Emerson Palmieri’s inclusion in the starting XI, who can possibly do a much better job than his team-mate. He has looked steady when being played and sticks to his job, rather than running around vaguely and giving the opposition attack free-space to make easy runs.

Emerson is not just better defensively, but is also an excellent crosser of the ball and has proven to be effective whenever given a chance. Sarri needs to make this big call before it’s too late and his team loses more crucial games.