In Focus: Disasi was sharp as an Axe on Chelsea debut

Axel Disasi enjoyed a memorable start to his Chelsea career. 

The defender's first Premier League outing after joining from Monaco was far from an easy task, a clash with Liverpool at Stamford Bridge. 

But Disasi impressed on the right of a back three, defending well throughout and scoring the Blues' equaliser after latching onto a loose ball in the box and prodding past the onrushing Alisson. 

Ahead of Chelsea's trip to West Ham this afternoon, we take a look at what the centre-back can offer over the course of the season.

Instant impact

Understandably, Disasi was delighted to have made such an instant impact with his new club.

The France international said: "I'm very happy. It's an amazing feeling to score on my debut and I'm really proud of the team because I think we played a very good game, especially in the second half. 

"I thought we played some really good football after half-time and on another day could have won the game. 

"There are positives for us to take into the next game and it is a really good sign for the future."

Promising start

Disasi was right at the heart of an encouraging first performance under Mauricio Pochettino. 

The 25-year-old was second only to Thiago Silva for completed passes (89), boasting an impressive accuracy of 92.71%. 

His ability to play out from the back will be important for Chelsea, as will his defensive attributes.

Disasi recorded seven ball recoveries and three clearances in the 1-1 draw with the Reds.

Size advantage

Disasi himself gave a teaser of what to expect before he left Monaco in the summer. 

He said: "My size is an advantage, I am comfortable in the air and in my sense of anticipation. 

"I also try to play the ball out from the back cleanly, to have fun on the pitch and — above all — to follow the coach's instructions. 

"I'm a player who works for the team and I hope to bring my defensive strength to bear." 

All of those attributes were visible on Sunday and the Frenchman should only improve under the tutelage of Pochettino.

Ligue 1 sensation

It is easy to see why Chelsea spent a reported £38.8million on Disasi. 

He was an outstanding performer in Ligue 1 last season, ranking fifth in the division for aerial duels won (97).

The centre-back is a commanding presence in both boxes, improving his side's ability to defend and attack set-pieces.

He is also an excellent reader of the game, making 56 interceptions and winning 127 possessions in the defensive third last term.

The next target for Disasi in a Chelsea shirt will be to help the team achieve a clean sheet. 

A repeat of his debut performance against West Ham should serve both parties well as they search for a first win of the new season.