Doesn't need to make as many challenges because he has Kirchoff and Cattermole/Rodwell alongside him instead of Toivonen/Larsson/No-one. Passing has always been a bit hit and miss. Role has changed - he used to sit deeper and split the Centre Halves. Kirchoff now does that role, so his role is to screen the back 4 (5 including Kirchoff) and plug the gaps left by the full backs pushing on. He also always, always shows for the ball when others do not. He is comfortable in possession and plays the simple passes. A lot of his work is covering, screening and tracking. A lot of that is unseen, off the ball work.simple he not as effective on the ball, he's not making as many challenges as he was and he's been poorer possession. forms dipped, has it not or do you think he's playing as well as he was?
See aboveWhat is he being asked to do? Thats as vague as "he's not playing as well"