Gary Cahill might just be one of the most underrated players of the past five years, but likewise, he can also be considered a good player that has been a part of some dominant teams. The Englishman has won every domestic honour there is to win for his team. He is also the current club captain at Chelsea. Despite Cahill having a glittering trophy cabinet, there is still a lot of doubt over his status in the Blues’ ranks.
Gary Cahill: Chelsea Legend?
His Performances
Cahill has played with some wonderful players and been coached by some brilliant managers, but perhaps the telling factor is that he has always been following the team’s form. He hasn’t been consistent when Chelsea have struggled but has looked quite superb in victorious sides.
Cahill won the UEFA Champions League in 2012, his debut season for Chelsea. He was also an important member of the squad that year that took the double, winning the FA Cup. He was a regular starter for that whole season as David Luiz was moved about. Cahill was also trusted massively by Roberto Di Matteo, a sign of his ability on and off the pitch ability.
Since then, the defender has always been a part of Chelsea’s teams, partnering Kurt Zouma, John Terry and David Luiz in back fours throughout the years. More recently, he excelled in Antonio Conte’s 3-4-3 system.
However, he was seen as Chelsea’s main weakness in that side. As a left-sided centre-half, he was often caught out of position, with some sides exploiting his lack of pace.
In 2014/15, Cahill was also part of the PFA Team of the Year in a Chelsea defence that typified Jose Mourinho. He was seen as a younger John Terry, mimicking his style and also determination.
Off the Pitch
The Chelsea club captain has always been a thorough professional. Training hard, playing harder. He is someone who knows the English game inside out.
Cahill always presented himself properly and was a role model for young English defenders. His knowledge of the club shouldn’t be laughed at.
Yet, it is here that current manager Maurizio Sarri is falling down. In a time when he needs to find short-term and long-term stability at the club, why not use their first team’s current longest-serving player? As club captain, Cahill can be hugely influential and is well respected in the Chelsea dressing room. Sarri would not be losing out if he went to Cahill for help or advice.
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