Steven Gerrard was left raving about Mykhailo Mudryk after his impressive Chelsea debut earlier today against Liverpool.
Mudryk, who joined Chelsea last week from Shakhtar Donetsk, got his first taste of Premier League action with a 35-minute cameo from the bench.
The 22-year-old wide player couldn’t find the breakthrough in the 0-0 draw at Anfield, but provided some fantastic touches and moments around the penalty box.
If the early signs are anything to go by, Chelsea supporters may have a new attacker to fall in love with.
As for Graham Potter, he was reminded yet again on Saturday that his side needs to be far more clinical when going forward.
Mykhailo Mudryk impact
Mudryk played less than a half of football at the weekend, but he’ll be a popular topic of conversation in the next few days at Chelsea.
Gerrard, who was working as a BT Sport pundit, singled out Chelsea’s January signing for huge praise in his post-match analysis.
When discussing Mudryk’s performance, Gerrard told BT Sport 1 (2:43pm, 21 January): “I thought that was a very strong cameo.
“… He looks the real deal. Some of his clips today were outstanding. He reminded me a bit of Arjen Robben
“… His footwork, how quick he is, the way he manipulates the ball. I’d be very excited if I was Chelsea.”
Incidentally, Gary Neville was another to praise the left-winger’s performance today.
The comparisons between Mudryk and Eden Hazard are any easy one to make, but let’s remember Chelsea’s new addition is only a 22-year-old without too much experience yet.
It’s interesting to hear Gerrard compare the Ukraine international with Arjen Robben, which is a great shout when you weigh up the blistering pace that defenders hate.
It feels inevitable Mudryk can nail down a spot in this Chelsea XI when he becomes fully fit.
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