It's just a team on paper, no need to read too much into the actual position. And I think you're bothering too much with Azpi's recent showings at LB. His best work, his most consistent years - especially defensively - came when he was playing at LB from 2013 to 2016, before being moved to CB in Conte's system. He rarely played at RB (before Sarri & Lampard). It's similar to Ivanovic as well on the other side. He could play as a CB but his best work came at RB and I seem to remember he was less reliable at CB than he was at RB. As for Cole, his impact after 2009/10 was minimal at best. Sure, there was the Champions League win and all but he certainly was no longer a strong force then than the years before, and of course, he got replaced by Azpi.