Mikel not convinced lining up with Luiz in Midfield

David Luiz was very impressive when Benitez played him alongside Mikel in the defensive midfield as Chelsea beat Monterrey 3-1 in the World Club Cup semi -finals. Although most people believed he plays where he really belongs but Mikel seems not to buy the idea.

The Nigerian international wasn't so sure the Brazilian player really squared the midfield role and he should revert to center defence. Mikel said he wasn't expecting to be playing alongside Luiz but after Rafa Benitez sprung the surprise he was not stunned to see Luiz rampaging forward from the start.

'It was a bit of a shock to see David lining up there,' said Mikel as reported in the Guardian. 'I said to him as we got on to the pitch: "Where shall I play?" 'He said he'd play the holding role and that I should go forward. I said OK but, when the game started, I looked up and he was already up their end of the pitch.'

Mikel did not think playing Luiz out of position should be a regular occurrence. 'David is a great player, but I don't know if this is going to be a long term thing,' said the Nigerian. 'I think he needs to play at the back. 'It was a good performance from him, he kept the ball well and played it well, but when it's not your normal position you sometimes lose something.

David Luiz was played in defensive mid-field because, Romeu Oriol was injured while Frank Lampard was just returning from a kneel injury but he latter came in as his replacement. With Oriol missing out on a long term injury and Lampard leaving Chelsea either in January or at the end of the season, it means Luiz will have to fill the void. But Mikel is having a mixed feeling and think he should best fit at the back. 'He is a great player and a strong character who can only get better for this club. He keeps going and doing his thing. Fair play to him.'

Meanwhile, both Luiz and Mikel has been subject of criticism from fans, some said Luiz plays with too much flair and attacking minded. Always leaving his back position open in search for goals while opponents take advantage. Mikel on the other hand is criticize for not contributing enough going forward. But to me, i think both are doing good. Chelsea are currently in Japan, missing the EPL action for this week to play the World Club Cup finals against Corinthians tomorrow.

Cyracks Zenda

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