Rory Jennings of talkSPORT believes Ampadu of Leeds United could solve Chelsea's midfield problems following Enzo Fernandez's departure.

The Welsh international spent six years at Stamford Bridge after joining from Exeter City in 2017 at age 16.

However, Ampadu made only 12 appearances for Chelsea's first team and was loaned out four times during that period.

The 26-year-old was sold to Leeds United for £7 million three years ago, and since then has not only become captain but has also helped the team win promotion to the Premier League as champions in 2024.

Speaking about Chelsea's midfield crisis, Jennings said on talkSPORT Breakfast: "The midfield simply isn't good enough. Losing Caicedo is a huge blow. I think we all need to stop pretending that Reece James can play in midfield".

"You talk to Chelsea fans and they ask: 'What are your options in midfield?' We'll list them one by one, but we have to stop pretending that Reece James is a midfielder. He can't do it".

"I watched Leeds United and I think they're excellent. When I watched Ampadu, I thought, he's everything I want Reece James to be in Chelsea's midfield: incisive tackles, controlling the tempo, orchestrating attacks and pressing aggressively".

"A player like Ampadu in Chelsea's midfield would elevate the whole club, but we don't have anyone like that right now. I really don't know what the solution is".

Ampadu continued his excellent start to the season in Leeds United's 4-1 victory over Newcastle United on Monday night.

So far, he has played every minute of his team's Premier League matches. Farke's side are unbeaten in their first four games and currently sit in third place.

By contrast, Chelsea have failed to win their last two Premier League matches after a 2-2 draw with Hull City on Saturday.

James, who has played as an improvised midfielder in his three starts this season, was deployed in that position again in that match.

Traducido por IA.

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