3 tactical changes Chelsea need to make to get points against Brighton

Chelsea travel to Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League with a single mission: to end their run of poor form. Following a series of disappointing results, pressure is mounting on manager Liam Rosenior. To avoid another defeat, he needs to make crucial changes to the starting lineup, rather than continuing to rely on outdated tactics.

Give Josh Acheampong a chance to start.

Although manager Rosenior has repeatedly publicly praised Josh Acheampong, his actual personnel choices contradict this. Since his impressive performance in the draw against Leeds United in February, the academy graduate has been largely overlooked in the team's major plans.

Statistics show that Acheampong's only start in recent times was in the FA Cup against Wrexham. For the following month and a half, the 19-year-old talent only had brief minutes off the bench. Notably, even when key defenders like Reece James and Trevoh Chalobah were absent due to injury, Rosenior still preferred to use Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, or Jorrel Hato instead of trusting Acheampong.

Given Chelsea's significant lack of height and aerial ability, dropping a physically strong defender like Acheampong is a puzzling decision. To counter Brighton's direct style of play, Acheampong needs to start to bring balance to the defense.

End the preferential treatment for Alejandro Garnacho.

Chelsea's wingers are facing major performance issues, and Alejandro Garnacho is the most disappointing name. After a brief period of explosive form at the beginning of March with important contributions against Aston Villa and Wrexham, the Argentinian forward has suffered a dramatic decline in form.

The reality is that Chelsea's attacking structure often becomes loose and ineffective when Garnacho is on the pitch. His decline began after being left out of the first leg against PSG in the Champions League, raising doubts about his mental fortitude. While Estevao Willian and Jamie Gittens were still unavailable, Rosenior stubbornly insisted on fielding Garnacho alongside Pedro Neto in the starting lineup.

Tactical analysis suggests that Chelsea have more effective options than relying on the former Manchester United player. Pushing Cole Palmer to the wing, pushing Malo Gusto further forward, or using Liam Delap on the wing all offer greater unpredictability compared to a Garnacho who is losing his form.

Bring on Marc Guiu for a struggling attack.

Another mistake Rosenior needs to rectify is neglecting Marc Guiu on the bench. The young striker has only made two appearances since making his mark with one goal and one assist on Rosenior's debut as manager. Guiu's 16 consecutive games on the bench is wasting a much-needed source of energy for the Blues' goal-scoring drought.

The close relationship between Rosenior and Liam Delap from their time at Hull City seems to be creating unnecessary favoritism. Chelsea is now a much more demanding environment where results must be prioritized. If Joao Pedro recovers in time, Guiu risks being left out of the squad.

However, given the reality of their struggling attack, giving Marc Guiu a chance could be key for Chelsea to find their way to Brighton's goal. A fresh look and renewed desire from young players like Guiu and Acheampong is what Chelsea needs more than ever to overcome their current crisis.