‘Cheeky’ – Chelsea hailed by Gary Neville for Clever Alternative Ploy to Deal with Arsenal Set Pieces

Gary Neville labelled Chelsea’s new plan to nullify Arsenal’s corner threat as a ‘cheeky tactic’.

Liam Rosenior’s side conceded from a corner in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at Stamford Bridge last month and thwarting Arsenal’s set-piece weapon was a key focus for the Chelsea boss.

The Blues’ exhausted all options in hope of overturning a 3-2 first-leg deficit but were beaten 1-0 on the night thanks to Kai Havertz’s last-gasp winner.

Rosenior ensured provisions were in place to cancel out Arsenal’s threat that has proved to be a vital component of their success this season.

The recently-appointed Chelsea head coach opted to push Liam Delap, Malo Gusto and Wesley Fofana forwards during an early Arsenal corner at the Emirates Stadium in anticipation of a counter attack.

The three Chelsea stars sprinted forward toward the centre circle which prompted Arsenal players to leave their attacking positions and track back to the trio.

Sky commentator Neville appeared stunned by Chelsea’s approach saying: “Ooh that’s a cheeky little tactic.

Neville later hailed that Rosenior’s side for trying something ‘very different’.

Neville’s colleague Jamie Redknapp also recognised Chelsea’s plan but express his concerns over the personnel used in the tactic.

“I like this plan but I don’t like the three players that are running up,” Redknapp told Sky Sports.

“My problem with that is you can see Enzo Fernandez is marking Gabriel. You’ve got ten yards [gap] there and you’ve got a player who’s the best at attacking a ball in world football.

“It works to a certain extent. What this does is negate too much traffic and Arsenal want to create chaos with these corners.”

Meanwhile, ITV, who are also broadcasting the match live, provided their own take on Chelsea’s ploy.

Arsenal legend and ITV pundit Ian Wright said: “What we see is Fofana and Delap – they just go. I’m surprised people haven’t done it more.”

The Blues dealt with Arsenal’s set-piece threat admirably during the second leg clash.

And their tactical nous may have provided ideas for Arsenal’s upcoming opponents on how to deal with their set-pieces.

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However, their endeveavor was not enough to see them book their place in the final.

The Gunners, who exited the competition at the semi-final stage 12 months ago, will now contest their first cup final in six years against either Manchester City or Newcastle.

The Gunners face Sunderland this weekend hoping to extend their six-point lead at the top of the Premier League.