Benitez deployed the Brazilian in such a position in advance for the Capital One Cup quarter-final against Leeds. Ramires and Jon Obi Mikel are both suspended ? whilst Oriol Romeu is out for the majority of the season with a nasty injury, Benitez needed to know if he had an option with David Luiz.
Luiz played 60 minutes of the game before being brought off for Frank Lampard. He received a standing ovation from the Chelsea supporters in what was no doubt one of his finest performances for the London club. Free of responsibilities at the back ? the Brazilian was able to express him in a fashion he's been desperate to do so since his arrival at Stamford Bridge.
Within five minutes, Luiz had gone past fellow countryman Oscar and had taken a shot from all of 25 yards. His burly frame allows him to use an aggressive approach against his midfield opponents. His recklessness and direct attitude allows him to up the tempo of a Chelsea midfield ? who already possess players like Oscar, Juan Mata and Eden Hazard.
Luiz was awarded the Man of the Match against Monterrey ? although they are hardly a Premier League side, Luiz's first test will be against Leeds on the 19th of December. If he can perform to a similar standard against the Championship outfit - Benitez will surely leave the Brazilian in midfield for the next fixture against Aston Villa.
During Chelsea's first half dominant display ? Luiz frequently broke up the Monterrey attacks alongside the impressive John Obi Mikel ? before leaving the attackers for dead with his pace and the ball at his feet. The tempo slowed down massively when he left the field ? and saw the attacking quartet of Chelsea begin to shadow.
When asked what he prefers; Luiz humbly answered: ?If I play in midfield or in defence I don?t mind because I just enjoy playing for Chelsea.?
Is David Luiz's future in midfield for Chelsea?
Source: DSG
Source: DSG