Thomas Tuchel claims Chelsea’s Romelu Lukaku continues to look “very motivated” and “very strong” in training, despite the fact he’s recently been overlooked in Premier League games.
Lukaku, 28, has been firmly under the microscope since his return to Stamford Bridge in the summer from Inter Milan.
It was expected the centre-forward would be the star man upon his return, something which hasn’t quite played out.
He’s scored 12 goals in 34 games across all competitions this season, but he’s lost his starting position to teammate Kai Havertz in recent matches. In fact, Lukaku’s not started a Premier League match since 19 February.
It’ll be interesting to see if the Belgian striker is selected in the starting line-up for tomorrow’s league game at home to Brentford.
Tuchel praised Lukaku in his Friday press conference when asked about him, sharing what he’s been like behind the scenes on the training ground.
“I feel him very motivated, very strong in training, very much involved when we do the games. He is a winner and he will stay a winner and stay important with us,” Tuchel said.
“There are a lot of matches in the decisive weeks of the season. That’s why there is no space now for second thoughts, being distracted or disappointed. We need everybody, every player and that includes Romelu.”
Lukaku can still salvage Chelsea season
Yes, Lukaku’s campaign so far has been an underwhelming one.
However, there’s still enough time and enough big games for him to turn it all around.
Havertz is the in-form Chelsea attacker that belongs in the best XI right now, but there’s so many fixtures in April that Lukaku will get a look-in at times.
It’s not unrealistic to think Lukaku can contribute in some key matches and push towards the 20-goal mark.
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