Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca says Tosin Adarabioyo is the only defender in his squad who can fully take on the role usually handled by Levi Colwill – www.isagoal.com reports.
Colwill is sidelined for most of the 2025/26 campaign after undergoing surgery for a serious ACL injury.
Football.London quotes Maresca explaining that it’s not about simply filling a left-sided centre-back slot, but about the unique way Colwill helps start attacks from deep.
Tosin and Colwill featured together in 21 of Chelsea’s 64 matches last season, giving Maresca confidence in his ability to step in.
“The only one that can do that job well is Tosin,” Maresca said ahead of the Crystal Palace clash.
Tosin started 15 league games last term and played a major role in Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League run, making 10 starts in 13 games.
He also completed the full 90 minutes in Chelsea’s pre-season meeting with AC Milan.