Thomas Tuchel explained that Edouard Mendy would return as Chelsea goalkeeper for the matc
Thomas Tuchel explained that Edouard Mendy would return as Chelsea goalkeeper for the match against West Ham United tomorrow, speaking in his press conference.
Mendy sat out the last two games, allowing Kepa Arrizbalaga some rare minutes between the Blues posts.
The Spaniard managed to keep clean sheets in both matches, against Manchester City last weekend and Brighton & Hove Albion on Tuesday.
Tuchel announced that Mendy will take back his no.1 spot for the West Ham tie, but not before praising Kepa for his pair of sturdy performances.
He said: “Yes Mendy (will be) in goal. Even before the cup game, me and the goalkeeper coach decided that Kepa will stay in one more game after Manchester City as a reward, to feel a bit of rhythm. Like playing every three days.
“What he is doing in training and in the dressing room is outstanding, simply outstanding, in terms of quality and personality.
“I am very happy he could show it on the pitch again. He had two clean sheets in two difficult matches.
“It is a good feeling that we can rely on two goalkeepers and they can keep clean sheets.
“They earn our trust in the moment. The situation hasn’t changed. Edu will be in goal.”
Mendy has been magnificent ever since he signed for the Blues from Rennes last October for £22m (Sky Sports).
Frank Lampard brought in the Senegalese international to replace Kepa, a position he is yet to permanently relinquish.
21 clean sheets in 36 Chelsea appearances is a terrific return from Mendy, who is now supported by a watertight defence ahead of him.
Tuchel’s team have conceded just nine goals following his arrival at Stamford Bridge in January, five of those coming all at once in the defeat to West Bromwich Albion.
West Ham will certainly pose a huge threat to their London rivals, especially if Jesse Lingard continues his fine form in front of goal.
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