Marcos Alonso will be vital to Thomas Tuchel during his reign as Chelsea manager, according to former England fullback Micah Richards.
Tuchel has given Alonso a chance to resurrect his career since taking over as Blues boss, with the Spaniard starting as left-wing back in a 3-4-2-1 system.
And for Richards, speaking for the BBC during Chelsea's 1-0 FA Cup win over Barnsley on Thursday, Alonso's attacking ability will be integral for Tuchel's side moving forward.
"When I played with him at Fiorentina he could play as one of those in a three at the back or as one of the wing-backs," Richards told BBC Sport. "I like him in this position, the wing-back role, because he always gets into these areas [the penalty area] causing havoc.
"He is one of the fittest players I have ever played with. He gives the ball and always goes on the outside. He has got great quality, a good left foot in terms of his technique and the way he plays the ball.
"But he always runs into this space, here [into the left side of the penalty area]. If you look at this for a finish [vs Burnley], it is technically amazing. He has the composure to bring it down, one touch, two touch and the third one puts it in the back of the net.
"Under Tuchel, he will be a vital player, because he can play in so many positions."
