AFTER seeing Chelsea demolish Portsmouth last night, coach Ray Wilkins revealed that new signing Mineiro will plug the gap left by Claude Makelele.
The 33-year-old Brazilian midfielder was signed on a free after being released by Hertha Berlin.
He has won 24 caps for his country and Wilkins says he offers the side more options.
He said: "With Essien out for six months and Deco injured he will give us importanrt cover. He has played for Brazil as a defensive midfielder which tells you his credentials.
"He reminds of Makelele and plays the position well. He is a very important signing."
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