‘8/10’: Chelsea player Tuchel’s reportedly decided to sell actually earns big praise for latest display

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Chelsea’s Ethan Ampadu’s ‘head was a magnet to the ball’ as Wales as they secured qualification for the 2022 World Cup with a 1-0 win over Ukraine, according to Sky Sports.

The 21-year-old was brought into Robert Page’s side for the crucial game, with the Dragons looking to secure a World Cup finals spot for the first time since 1958.

Ampadu, who starred on loan for Venezia last season, played 90 minutes as his country defended resolutely to deny Ukraine the chance to get back into the game.

Sky Sports gave the centre back a rating of seven out of ten, highlighting his response to a nervy opening moment.

They said: “Played Yaremchuk onside for an early chance and was grateful to Hennessey. Made a vital headed clearance from under his own crossbar. Indeed, it was as if Ampadu’s head was a magnet to the ball.”

Wales Online were similarly complimentary of the Blues star, issuing him with an eight out of ten as the Dragons survived a second half onslaught from their opponents.

They said: “A couple of misplaced passes early on, but more than pulled his weight defensively as the game wore on. Grew into things nicely and once again showed maturity well beyond his years. A composed performance in the end.”

Ampadu will return to Stamford Bridge next season after a solid loan spell with Serie A outfit Venezia. The time abroad was the Welshman’s third loan spell away from the Blues, after spending time with RB Leipzig and Sheffield United.

The 21-year-old made the majority of his Chelsea appearances under Antonio Conte and Maurizio Sarri, with all but one of his 12 appearances coming in cup competitions.

Now, according to TEAMtalk, Thomas Tuchel has decided to let the Wales international go this summer, but that seems a risk.

The departure of Antonio Rudiger as well as rumoured exits for Andreas Christensen and Cesar Azpilicueta could leave Chelsea short at the back next season, unless they are able to strengthen in the transfer window.

Ampadu’s latest showing may go some way to changing Tuchel’s mind over his decision to sell him, but that remains to be seen as the summer progresses.