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

Callum Rice-Coates
LiveScore
  
Axel Disasi caught the eye on his Chelsea debut
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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.

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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."

Axel Disasi scored the equalising goal against Liverpool on his Premier League debut for Chelsea

Promising start

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

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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.

Axel Disasi's passing was secure against Liverpool

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

Axel Disasi was superb in the air for Monaco in Ligue 1 last season

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

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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.

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ChelseaPremier LeagueAxel Disasi

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