Thomas Tuchel admitted Romelu Lukaku is not happy about his current situation at Chelsea but also said he may try different formations to fit the striker in.
The 28-year-old has made just two starts in the last five Chelsea games since his goalscoring performance in the Club World Cup final win over Palmeiras in February.
Kai Havertz’s fine form obviously plays a big part.
The Germany international has thrived in the number nine position in the last few games, including last Saturday’s 4-0 win Burnley in which he scored two goals.
Tuchel even recently suggested that Havertz is now leading the striking pecking order.
Lukaku is understandably not very happy, according to the manager, but he may still get his chance as Tuchel considers tactical changes.
“Yes, of course, it’s not easy at the moment for him,” Tuchel said in his press conference on Wednesday when asked whether he has had to manage out-of-favour Lukaku carefully.
“But he’s an important member of the team.
“There are players at certain times who are not happy because the biggest problem is that we can only start 11 players and a lot of players think, and they have a reason to, that they [should be] regular starters for us.
“There is always a chance [for Lukaku] because Kai can play in more positions than just number [nine].
“We can also play with double strikers like we played in the second half against Burnley and Luton Town, so there’s always a chance.
“It’s not only Romelu, but it’s also Timo [Werner] and sometimes one of the midfielders.
“But in the end, it’s quality that makes the difference. Romelu fights for it like everybody else and that’s what we need.
“Of course, he doesn’t like the situation — nobody likes the situation — but he handles it very professionally, and I try to do my best to be respectful and supportive like everybody else.”
Tuchel’s decision to use Mason Mount in a deeper role and changed the formation to a 3-5-2 was crucial to their win against Burnley.
Havertz and Christian Pulisic played the two striker roles at the time, but Lukaku, who clearly enjoyed playing with a partner up front at Inter Milan, should be able to play alongside Havertz.
This, however, may create another problem, as it means even less game time for wingers if Tuchel is to use a 3-5-2.
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