The flexibility of having Ramires in the squad is of double value: not only can the Brazilian operate centrally, wide, defensively and offensively, but he also opens the door for Mourinho to use a host of other systems. Firstly, as a squad player, he can fill in for almost any player on the pitch. His work rate, tackling ability and stamina mean he could operate as a defensive winger, full back, central midfielder, holding midfielder, box to box or even as an attacking midfielder to pick up scraps and hound the opposition. His utility qualities make him an incredible asset that is very rare in the modern game. Secondly, Mourinho can tailor his tactics to get the result when Ramires is in the side. There is no point in playing Hazard, Willian, Schurrle and Salah against Manchester City, defensively the team would be so exposed that the result could be a humiliating one. Instead, having the likes of Ramires operating in the midfield not only provides defensive cover, but also a springboard for the quick counterattack. Strategically, Ramires is key to winning difficult matches.