Maranhão · Defender · #2 · 27 yrs
New Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso wants his sides to dominate the ball, setting up attacks in opponents' halves for long periods. Through these small-space interactions between his players, the centre of the pitch can become crowded - but this is a deliberate quirk of Alonso's system. From a squad-building perspective, Alonso will be looking for technical players who thrive in small spaces, allowing his team to unlock defences' stubborn low blocks.
Former Brighton striker Glenn Murray says the Seagulls must "stay positive" after Sunday's defeat at Leeds as they would have "snapped your arm off" to be in their current position had they been offered it before a ball was kicked. Presently, teams finishing sixth and seventh are guaranteed a place in the Europa League at least. Brighton, on 53 points, occupy seventh despite the setback at Elland Road and will definitely finish in the top seven if they beat Manchester United on Sunday.
