Charles De Ketelaere continues to be used as a substitute by Stefano Pioli but the change in formation could bring about a transformation in fortunes, a report claims.
Read SempreMilan ad-free and get access to exclusive news. Click here for a free trial!
La Gazzetta dello Sport report this morning that the game against Empoli could bring about a new chance for De Ketelaere to have a breakthrough performance and light a spark after what has been a disappointing debut season so far.
Pioli has used him in various roles in different formations to try and unlock the talent that is undoubtedly inside, yet the return to the 4-2-3-1 could see the Belgian used in the No.10 role just as he was in his most promising performances early in the campaign.
Given Brahim Diaz came off with discomfort during the win over Napoli it is likely he won’t start on Friday, although it’s nothing to worry about and it could see De Ketelaere get the nod.
Pioli could also opt to play with Bennacer, Tonali and Krunic again and therefore leave the 22-year-old out again, with Saelemaekers on the right.
Pioli has always said he sees De Ketelaere’s best position as being behind the striker, so it seems unlikely that he will get the nod to start on the right, especially given one of Empoli’s best players Parisi plays left-back so extra defensive cover will be needed.
De Ketelaere’s last start was against Fiorentina a month ago, and during the international break he gave an interview during which he demonstrated full awareness of his difficulties and at the same time the conviction of having the qualities to overcome them. Now, he must blossom.
