The 22-year-old has struggled for game time at Newcastle United this season but could benefit from his own adaptability.
If Chancel Mbemba can’t get a game in the heart of Newcastle United’s backline, perhaps he should try his hand in a different position entirely.
Arguably the most impressive of the club’s outfield players last season, although there was hardly too much competition for that particular accolade, Rafael Benitez’s decision to drop the Congolese centre-back to fourth choice in his pecking order left fans stunned.
Now however, with Newcastle top of the table, they can perhaps understand the method behind Benitez’s perceived madness.
Following a horror performance in September’s 2-0 home defeat to Wolves, Mbemba has featured only twice in the league throughout the last five months with captain Jamaal Lascelles and summer signing Ciaran Clark, an odd addition on initial inspection after a nightmare campaign with Aston Villa, establishing themselves as one of the league’s most effective partnerships.
However, while a place in the back four looks out of the question currently, a vacancy could be opening up in the squad.
The Chronicle claim that The Magpies will not renew Vurnon Anita’s contract, meaning he will be free to find another club in June. Therefore, Newcastle need a new utility man and, in Mbemba, they perhaps have a player ready and willing to take on the role.
Throughout the African Cup of Nations, the former Anderlecht muscle man performed impressively in an unfamiliar central midfield position, putting his composure in possession to good use.
Furthermore, at almost 87 per cent, Mbemba boasts the highest pass completion rate in Benitez’s squad, meaning he could be a viable option in the centre of the park if required.
Anita has proven a key figure over the years for his ability to flit between varying positions but the initial signs suggest Mbemba could seize his opportunity as Benitez’s go-to man in a crisis.
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