Super Eagles target Tosin Adarabioyo sets 2 Chelsea records in dramatic FA Cup win

Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo set two impressive club records during his side’s FA Cup victory over Wrexham at the Racecourse Ground, Afrik-Foot reports.

Chelsea eventually secured their place in the next round after beating the lower-league side in extra time, but the match was far from comfortable for the Premier League club.

Manager Liam Rosenior’s decision to start with a back three did not work well early in the game. Chelsea struggled to control the match until the manager switched to a back four and introduced players such as Marc Cucurella and Joao Pedro from the bench. The change helped the Blues regain control.

Adarabioyo had a difficult start and looked uncomfortable on the ball at times. However, as the match went on, the centre-back grew into the game and ended up producing a record-breaking performance.

The defender finished the match with 169 touches, the most by any Chelsea player in a single game this season, according to stats provided by FotMob. The previous record was held by Trevoh Chalobah, who had 138 touches against Hull City earlier in the campaign.

Adarabioyo also made 15 ball recoveries, beating Moises Caicedo’s previous club-best of 10 recoveries recorded against Aston Villa in December. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez also impressed with 14 recoveries in the same match.

Adarabioyo’s overall statistics from the match were strong. He completed 142 of his 151 passes, made 15 recoveries, seven clearances, three blocks, two interceptions and one tackle, while also winning four duels.

Despite the numbers, the defender had moments where he appeared unsure on the ball. His form will likely be closely watched in the coming months, especially with reports suggesting Chelsea could consider selling him in the summer if his performances do not improve.

Tosin Adarabioyo still weighing Nigeria decision

Away from club football, the 27-year-old is yet to decide his international future.

Born in London to Nigerian parents, Adarabioyo is eligible to represent both England and Nigeria. He previously played for England at youth level from the under-16 to under-19 teams, but has never received a senior call-up.

The former Fulham defender recently said he has never rejected Nigeria and insisted earlier reports suggesting so were incorrect.

“Both of those pieces of news are pretty false. I’ve never turned down Nigeria,” he said.

“At the point of last season where there was a little bit of conversation, I told them I just want to focus on club football.”

Nigeria’s football authorities have continued to monitor the centre-back as they look to refresh an ageing defence. With several current Super Eagles defenders now over 30, Adarabioyo could become an important option if he decides to represent the three-time African champions.