Chelsea’s Antonio Rudiger has been recorded as the fastest player in the Premier League this season.
OptaJoe, who are a well-known statistician page, have shared on Twitter the top speeds recorded by them across the whole Premier League during the 2021/22 campaign so far.
Blues defender Rudiger, 29, is remarkably top of the pile.
The German centre-back hit a top speed of 36.7 km/h (22.8 m/h) against Brighton in a league fixture.
He just pipped Mohamed Salah and Adama Traore, who both reached 36.6 km/h, to the fastest in the entire division.
It may come as a surprise to see a centre-half top this list, but regular Chelsea watchers will know Rudiger has a ridiculous turn of pace when he needs it.
The 29-year-old’s speed and aggression is such a vital part of his game. Also, he’s really matured defensively under Blues manager Thomas Tuchel to really pick and choose his moments.
Unfortunately, Chelsea are in a horrible situation where Rudiger’s current deal expires at the end of the season and they’re not permitted under current sanctions to discuss new contracts with players.
As it stands, they’ll lose him in the summer and his athleticism at the back will be a significant loss.
Italian giants Juventus have reportedly already agreed a deal with him to sign him for next season, too.
Chelsea speedsters
The modern game means that defenders are now some of the quickest players around.
It would be interesting to see where Rudiger finishes in a sprint race with his teammates at Stamford Bridge.
He would have to be one of the favourites alongside the likes of Timo Werner, Christian Pulisic and Kai Havertz.
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