Finally getting credit, mainly because of this new role. The age old argument about him going missing doesn't apply anymore because he's a reference point now. The player who needs to have the ball at his feet all of time. He's fulfilling his potential in this role. When Naingolan started marking him he stepped up big time. He has the physicality to win those duels. When Pirlo was marked closely, his skill on the ball wasn't always enough i.e that tie againt Bayern some years ago.
Good on ya Principo! Keep it up. This is the sort of role players can keep shining in well into their 30s.