Dominant Disasi becoming Chelsea's main man at the back

Axel Disasi has been one of the major positives to emerge from another disappointing season at Chelsea.

The centre-back, signed from Monaco in the summer, has performed particularly well in recent weeks and helped the Blues pick up some much-needed points.

He was excellent in last weekend's 1-1 draw at Manchester City and is beginning to look like the most assured of Chelsea's defenders.

Ahead of this afternoon's Carabao Cup final against Liverpool, we take a look at Disasi's growing importance to Mauricio Pochettino's Blues.

Etihad excellence

Disasi earned praise for the bravery and tenacity of his display at the Etihad last time out.

The 25-year-old made a series of heroic blocks and was largely nullified City's numerous attacking threats.

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher said: "It was backs against the wall throwing yourself in front of things — every time the ball comes in you're like a magnet.

"That was a John Terry performance and I can't give any higher praise than that.

"I can't remember a better defensive performance this season, certainly from a central defender."

Comparisons with Terry might seem premature but Disasi has certainly demonstrated the kind of qualities that could make him a fan favourite at Stamford Bridge.

Main man

There has been a gradual improvement from Disasi throughout the season.

Like most of his team-mates, there have been difficult moments for the France international, who has had several different centre-back partners.

But he heads to Wembley playing the best football of his brief Chelsea career to date.

Disasi has played more minutes across all competitions (2,845) than any other player in the squad this term — and there are signs that the Blues are more effective as a unit when he plays alongside Benoit Badiashile or Levi Colwill.

No Chelsea player has won more aerial duels (60) than Disasi in Premier League games, while he also ranks first in the squad for attempted passes (1,772).

With a pass completion rate of 90.58%, the Frenchman has proven himself more than capable of playing out from the back.

His combination of physical prowess and technical quality bodes well for a successful career in England's top flight.

Feet on the ground

Disasi is unlikely to get carried away with his promising performances.

He said ahead of today's showpiece in the capital: "Since the start of the season there have been a lot of expectations.

"We have to stay humble, but you can see we are growing and improving. We have to stay like this, stay humble, and keep this level.

"Next is the final and we have to learn from this game. We showed we can take a lot of confidence before the next game."

Though clean sheets are still rare, three goals conceded in their last three games represents an improvement for Chelsea after shipping four to both Liverpool and Wolves previously.

If they are to get the better of the Reds at Wembley, Disasi will need to be at his brilliant best once again.