BBC Sport reports that Pedro Neto has been transformed into a right wing-back under Xabi Alonso at Chelsea. On Saturday, Neto scored twice from wing-back in Chelsea's 2-0 win at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Alonso's use of Neto
On Saturday, Alonso said of Neto's position: "You can call him whatever you want. Winger, wing-back, attacking player, defensive player. He can do many things."
BBC Sport says Alonso uses an asymmetric approach and does not demand the same attacking output from his left-sided wing-back, usually Jorrel Hato or Pep Chavarria.
BBC Sport says Neto's switch from winger to right wing-back under Alonso has amplified qualities that were already there.
Attacking numbers
Neto has scored four goals and provided one assist in nine appearances this season, with three of those appearances coming as a substitute.
He is averaging 5.3 touches in the opposition box per 90 minutes compared with 3.6 last season.
His successful dribbles have risen from 1.6 to 1.8 per 90 minutes, while his dribble success rate has increased from 43.5% to 52.6%.
He is creating more chances, with his average climbing from 1.8 to 2.0 per 90, including an increase in open-play chances created from 1.5 to 1.8.
Defensive work and contract
His tackles have risen from 0.7 to 2.0 per 90 and possessions won from 2.9 to 3.9, all in the Premier League.
Neto said: "In my head, I always have to run back and help my defenders as well."
Neto signed a new contract until 2032.
BBC Sport reported that Chelsea did not regard Neto as untouchable during the summer and had set an asking price of about £100m.