‘Work rate is immense’: Thomas Tuchel amazed by how far 22-year-old Chelsea player ran against Lille

Add as preferred source on Google

Thomas Tuchel picked out Chelsea’s Kai Havertz for huge praise after his individual performance last night against Lille.

The Blues took control of their Champions League last-16 tie against Lille by winning the first leg 2-0 on Tuesday night.

Tuchel’s side went ahead at Stamford Bridge early on through Havertz, who found space in the penalty box to head in from a corner his seventh goal of the season.

Christian Pulisic then added a vital second during the second half, so it means the Premier League side travel to France as strong favourites to win the contest.

Havertz, who started ahead of teammate Romelu Lukaku in the number nine position, was brilliant for 90 minutes.

The 22-year-old forward got through so much industrious work off the ball, as well as providing a genuine attacking threat with his movement and directness.

Tuchel was left amazed by how much distance the German covered in the Lille victory:

“I’m very pleased. Kai is very strong for weeks now, really steps up. His effort is immense, the work rate is immense, the areas of the pitch he covers for us is very, very good. He was decisive, created chances, was involved, and was never shy of defending,” Tuchel said.

More complete Chelsea performance

Last night’s win against Lille is certainly one that will encourage Chelsea supporters.

The Blues defence, lead by “ridiculously good” centre-back Thiago Silva, managed to sniff out the danger possessed by the Ligue 1 visitors.

In addition, Chelsea’s offensive play looked a lot brighter than in some recent games.

It feels like there are still plenty more gears this team can go through, but this week’s European performance was a snippet of what they’re capable of doing when they’re at it.

For certain, it’s going to take a performance that’s even better when this Sunday’s Carabao Cup final rolls around against rivals Liverpool. Hopefully, Merseyside giants Liverpool are put through a gruelling Premier League fixture at home to Leeds United tonight first.

Keep up to date with all the latest Chelsea news and opinion by following The Chelsea Chronicle’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.