Kai Havertz might not have received much praise for his World Cup performance, but at least he earned the admiration of Anthony Barry recently.
Havertz has now returned to Chelsea, following his dismal campaign in Qatar.
Germany failed to prevent a second-successive exit from the group stage, despite drawing with Spain and defeating Costa Rica 4-2.
Very few of Hansi Flick’s side can hold their head high after such a torrid tournament, with the exception of Jamal Musiala.
Kai Havertz crushed by the World Cup
One of the most underwhelming stories from the German camp was that of Havertz’s meagre contribution.
The 23-year-old started the first game against Japan, but was then dropped for the follow up fixture after failing to register a shot on target.
He then had to watch from the bench as Niclas Fullkrug came on before him and scored a crucial equaliser in the showdown with Spain.
This potentially World Cup-saving point meant all was to play for in the final contest versus Costa Rica.
Flick’s men did manage to score four times, including a brace from Havertz, yet still departed the competition thanks to Japan’s victory over Spain.
Havertz has eyes on Chelsea redemption
Chelsea’s young forward must retrain his focus on helping Graham Potter push up the Premier League table and not look back at the World Cup in anguish.
He has already seemingly started his recovery in good fashion.
The club cameras were present during a possession exercise on the Cobham pitches yesterday when Havertz earned the approval of one coach.
His smart pass through a number of bodies was meet with applause from Anthony Barry, one of Potter’s right-hand men.
Barry and Havertz have shared their Chelsea journey together, having both arrived at Stamford Bridge in 2020.
They know each other extremely well, with the former well aware of the latter’s capability.
If Kai can catapult his campaign to new heights, it won’t just be Barry clapping his quality.
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