Pat Nevin insisted that Mason Mount and Antonio Rudiger must start for Chelsea in the Champions League against Porto tonight, speaking on MAH.
Thomas Tuchel’s team have a chance to reach the semi-finals of this particular competition for the first time since 2013/14.
They are in a very promising position to do so, having defeated their Portuguese opponents 2-0 in the reverse fixture last week.
All focus will now be on whether Chelsea can get over the line in Sevilla later today.
Although their advantage is comfortable, Tuchel can take no risks in his team selection as Porto will undoubtedly come out fighting for the second leg.
It is still unclear what the German coach feels he’s best XI is, but Nevin gave him two names that had to be included no matter what.
The Blues legend said: “What you do is put Rudiger in there and you put Mason Mount in there and you fill in around them.
“Because those are the two who need to start. I’m not saying they are our best players, but you can’t play against Porto without Rudiger.
“When Mason Mount isn’t in the team it’s weird, because of his energy levels and because of what he does in every sphere in the game.”
Rudiger and Mount have pretty much been ever-present since Tuchel landed in England three months ago.
Between them, they have only missed five out of the last 17 matches in all competitions.
Mount continues to shine in all areas of his game, whilst Rudiger’s inclusion has brought a steeliness to the Blues back line.
Perhaps the only other players to be certified selections are Edouard Mendy in goal and captain Cesar Azpilicueta.
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