Is Pjanic Chelsea’s Man-Ic? (Video)
We have all read about Frank Lampard’s contract situation with Chelsea and while interim boss Rafael Benitez will neither deny nor confirm rumours the veteran midfielder will be on his way as early as January, scouts have eyes on a replacement.
Gone are the days of Chelsea’s powerful and strong squad bullying sides, home and away, in to defeat. There is a new philosophy being employed by Stamford Bridge coaches.
For over 11 years now Chelsea fans have seen Frank Lampard storming from box to box and contributing more goals than most Premier League strikers might but the 34 year old’s direct style of play looks like being replaced by the technical ability and playmaking of Roma’s Miralem Pjanic.
Still young at 22 years old Pjanic will fit in to the youthful squad at Chelsea while adding valuable experience of playing in the Champions League and at the top of French football with Ligue 1 side Olympiques Lyonnais. In 3 years at Lyon Pjanic made 121 appearances in all competitions scoring 16 goals and providing assists for a further 16 goals.
Pjanic’s neat touch, preference to keep the ball close and passes short will compliment the likes of Juan Mata and Oscar currently in Chelsea’s new look midfield as owner Roman Abramovich presses coaches to play a more free flowing, attacking brand of football.
The Roma midfielder may be available to move for £14 million, a bargain for a highly rated 22 year old.
Sam Jewell
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