'No problem': Tuchel says two Chelsea stars 'can play together' despite wanting same position
Thomas Tuchel has no doubts Andreas Christensen and Thiago Silva can play in the same Chelsea side when both are available, speaking in his latest press conference.
Christensen is currently covering for Silva while the veteran defender recovers from injury.
The Brazilian suffered a muscle problem last month against Tottenham Hotspur and hasn’t played since.
In his absence, Christensen has stepped up brilliantly and he’s probably one of Tuchel’s most important players at present.
Silva did return to Chelsea’s bench for their recent win over Everton but is set to miss tomorrow’s match at Leeds following a setback.
And, whenever the 36-year-old does make a full recovery, Tuchel will have a dilemma.
Does he stick with Christensen or replace him with Silva?
When asked about the scenario, Tuchel’s response was clear.
He said: “They can play together. I am very sure Christensen can play on both sides in the back three.
“They can play together when we choose a back four. They can be together as centre-backs. In a back three, the position in the middle is best for Thiago.
“This is the same for Andreas, but he can play on both sides so no problem there.”
Tuchel has discovered a solution for every issue thrown his way since taking charge of Chelsea. But it will be interesting to see whether he can pull off a Silva-Christensen combination.
They have only played together once this season, in the 3-3 draw with West Bromwich Albion, in what was Silva’s Chelsea debut.
It does leave Tuchel with plenty of puzzles – but this is one he’ll enjoy solving.
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I’m in no position to cast judgement on managerial decisions, but I’m not sure I see Silva and Christensen working together.
They both prefer being in the middle of a three and I doubt Tuchel will suddenly change to a back four.
I think it will be one or the other, not both.
