Malang Sarr started his second Premier League game at the weekend and his fourth in a row for Chelsea in all competitions, with the 22-year-old continuing to look at home at the highest level.
Injuries to several defensive players have forced Thomas Tuchel’s hand in recent weeks, and the boss even switched to a back four for both legs of our Carabao Cup semi-final against Tottenham.
All the while, Sarr has displayed his versatility by featuring on the left side of a back three, like against Manchester City when he was solid throughout, in the heart of the defence, and at left-back. He has assessed those different roles as well as his own showing at the Etihad, when he earned plaudits in his biggest Blues game yet.
‘On an individual level it was satisfying but I always like to go home with a clean sheet and a victory, so personally, yes, it went okay, but that’s not what I am looking for,’ said the Frenchman.
‘I want to give everything for the team and help us not concede goals. I try to be the best I can to help the squad, to feel comfortable. If I need to play on the side, I will. If I need to play as a three in the back, I will.
‘No matter what I'm ready to help the team achieve our goals, to be good on the pitch and to perform. It’s a high-level team. I need to bring this level, play hard and be the best I can.’
Defeat in the North-West on Saturday has left us 13 points behind reigning champions Man City with a little over a third of the league campaign remaining. Sarr is determined to help the Blues keep fighting even if our title prospects are very slim.
‘The result will make it harder, but it was not a final, there are still lots of games left and points to fight for. The league is very long.
‘I have confidence in the group and the capacity of our team, and I have no doubt we will battle until the end. It’s really possible we can recover ground.’