Garth Crooks had no issues in including Antonio Rudiger into his BBC team of the week after he was solid again in defence for Chelsea.
Rudiger was at the heart of another clean sheet for Thomas Tuchel during the Blues 0-0 draw with Leeds United last Saturday.
It was the tenth shutout in 12 games for Chelsea, all but one which have been attained with the German centre-back in attendance.
He out muscled Patrick Bamford in the early exchanges against Leeds.
So much so, the England striker had to depart the field because of an injury.
Nobody else in a white jersey could outwit Rudiger, who ensured Edouard Mendy’s net remained untouched.
This dominative display persuaded Crooks to reward him with a place in his weekly XI.
“When I saw Patrick Bamford limp off the pitch at Elland Road after a collision with Antonio Rudiger, I wasn’t surprised,” said the Tottenham Hotspur striker.
“Most players who come into contact with Rudiger know that they have been in a game.
“Since the German international returned to the Chelsea line-up, their goal against tally has been as good as any defence in the league.
“Earlier in the season they were leaking goals. I keep telling Chelsea fans that Rudiger may not be pretty but he is the best defender at the club.”
Chelsea supporters won’t mind how glamorous his football is.
As long as the 28-year-old keeps out the goals, they will be happy.
Crooks is right in saying the Blues defensive form has vastly improved since Rudiger was restored to the team.
He was totally excluded by Frank Lampard and had only played three times in the Premier League before Tuchel’s arrival.
With his compatriot coach now in charge, Rudiger’s name is arguably one of the first on the team sheet.
His reward for such positive performances? A potential new contract offer, according to the Daily Mail.
The Chelsea Chronicle View
I’m so glad Rudi is getting the recognition he deserves.
Like so many, I was shocked when Lampard continuously decided to leave him out.
Luckily, Tuchel saw his worth and it doesn’t seem likely he’ll be dislodged again any time soon.
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