He'd have either checked his run or been outmuscled. I don't think he'd have outright missed though. Even that one would be tough for him to miss.
He should be a bit more accustomed to the positioning and defensive aspect as he is a CB by trade. Hell he's even more a sweeper by trade which is very close to DM. The lad really seems to want to be a box-to-box CM by the looks of it. At least that's what he seems to be playing at.
I like that lad because he is aware of the limitations of his game and thus, understands when its advantageous to dribble and when to pass. Some wingers don't quite understand that simple fact. If he works on his finishing and crossing accuracy he will be a right-footed version of Malouda (circa 2009-2010).
based on the sample size of the past two and a half games he has been shocking and getting progressively worse
I have never been impressed with him at CB except in some games. He has great vision and I can deal with his countless mistakes in the middle than the back. He needs to cut down on his haphazard shooting and get his positioning right. Something I am willing to give him time because he is talented and is enthusiastic.