Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has noted that the Blues have suffered so far this season due to their failure to sign a midfielder.
With Moises Caicedo sidelined by a calf injury, Xabi Alonso has opted to utilise Romeo Lavia and natural right-back Reece James in midfield roles.
Chelsea are presently deficient in central midfield, having been unable to secure a replacement for Enzo Fernandez, who left for Manchester City on deadline day in a joint-British-record transfer worth £125 million.
A potential deal for highly rated Monaco prospect Lamine Camara collapsed at the last moment.
“That is one position where the club has not managed to strengthen during the transfer window. We have failed,” Mikel stated on the Obi One Podcast.
“We were aware that Enzo Fernandez wanted to leave the club. He had expressed this desire for a long time. Yes, we have £125 million available, but we did not bring in another player, and that is why we are currently suffering.
“We discuss conceding goals. While it is easy to blame the defence, it is essential to have at least two holding players to shield and protect the back four in that system. This is necessary because otherwise, you will be left vulnerable.”