‘They did amazingly’: Tuchel seriously impressed by how much two Chelsea players have improved recently

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Thomas Tuchel waxed lyrical about Christian Pulisic and Kai Havertz taking it upon themselves to improve their Chelsea form.

Speaking to the 5^th Stand, Tuchel attributed the pair’s progression to personal drive and willpower.

Both attackers have undergone something of a glow-up in the past few months.

2022 has brought a lot of joy to the pair that was missing for large parts of 2021.

Power to the Pulisic

Pulisic is now very much part of Tuchel’s project, having previously sat quite close to the periphery.

The American international has played in all but six of Chelsea’s fixtures since the turn of the year.

He scored in the enthralling 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Stamford Bridge, twice against Lille across both legs of the Champions League knockout tie and once in the 4-0 Premier League triumph over Burnley.

Seemingly rid of the injury problems that have blighted his career, fans are now seeing a fresh version of Captain America.

“He dug himself out. He was like a bit in the same situation as Kai,” commented Tuchel on Pulisic’s improvement.

“Both of them took responsibility for the turnaround. So, it’s their full responsibility and they deserve the credit and they did amazingly and you can see it on the pitch.

“If the players step up, take the responsibility on a really daily basis and fight for it and fight heavily for it and not accept any excuses for themselves and dig their way out, they have our full support.

“Also, sometimes it’s a give and take and it’s a positive cycle of improvement and support. You get the positive feedback and that’s where Christian is at the moment.

“He is decisive and that’s what we demand and we will keep on pushing.”

Kai is climbing that ladder

Havertz meanwhile has gone to even greater heights.

Move aside Romelu Lukaku, a new striker is in town.

After settling the Club World Cup final from the penalty spot, Havertz has scored another five times, which includes his current run of three successive league fixtures.

His performances have been brimming with confidence, a player fully at one with his frame.

It would not be a surprise to see him and Pulisic lining up together for the rest of Chelsea’s most important games this season.

Imagine typing that sentence 12 months ago…

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