Morcillo puts an end to Elche's goal drought

Elche C.F.

The switch of Javier Morcillo is starting to pay off. The young Catalan player, used to operating as a pivot, has found a new place in Martín Anselmi's plans after circumstances forced the Argentine coach to change his back line.

It all began in Cornellà, when Fede Redondo was sent off against Espanyol, prompting the coach to move Morcillo into the heart of the defence. His performance convinced the coaching staff and he was able to repeat in that position against Celta, a match that ended in a goalless draw.

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The change has coincided with an improvement in the defence of Elche, who had shown plenty of difficulties containing their opponents at the start of the campaign. After eight matchdays, the team managed to keep their goal intact for the first time, a stat Anselmi valued especially despite not securing a win.

The coach acknowledged his satisfaction after the match: “This has been the best thing about the game. Keeping the door shut gives you solidity”.

Morcillo's adaptation is not entirely new either. Although his usual position is in midfield, he had already played as a centre-back during his time at Sabadell, where he had to take on that role in different Segunda RFEF matches.

Anselmi also highlighted the player's defensive qualities and the knowledge he gained during his training at Atlético. “He did very well against Espanyol and he has many things from Atlético built in to defend well. He understands the position to play in that role. He's aggressive when it comes to duels”, the Argentine coach explained.