Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has shown huge support for his player Kai Havertz by insisting that he’s going to start scoring more often.
Havertz, 22, was enjoying a strong run in the starting line-up before the international break, something aided by injures within the Blues squad.
The £150,000-a-week German attacker has scored four goals in 16 appearances so far this season, but some feel that he’s nowhere near reaching his full potential.
He netted the famous goal to win the Champions League final during his debut Chelsea season. However, it was only nine goals in 45 games last campaign for someone with his individual ability.
Tuchel’s comments during his Friday press conference about Havertz should give him a confidence boost, though.
“He will continue [his goal scoring form], no doubts about it because he has a good character and attitude. He took the right step to challenge himself in the Premier League with Chelsea,” Tuchel said.
“This is the right club to bring out the best in him. He simply needs time and grass doesn’t grow faster if you pull it, it still takes time. He is still young, hungry and ambitious.
“We want the best out of him today and tomorrow but at the same time, he is still only 22. There are some years to come from him. If he fights for it, as he fights now to adapt to the Premier League and his positions, there will be goals and assists under his belt. This is sure and I have no doubts.”
Chelsea need 10+ goals from Havertz
If Chelsea are to go the distance in the Premier League title race, they need a few players to hit double figures in the goal department.
Havertz has done a decent stand-in job at centre-forward in the past month, plus he can play in an attacking position in pockets of space just behind.
The left-footer usually shows great composure with his finishing around the box. For him, it’s about timing his forward runs and showing a hunger to score more goals.
Chelsea and Germany teamamte Antonio Rudiger has recently backed Havertz by insisting “maturity will come with time” for the 22-year-old. Likewise, Frank Leboeuf reckons the forward can “give so much more”.
Will he start against Leicester City?
Chelsea travel to the King Power Stadium tomorrow to play Leicester in an early kick-off Premier League fixture.
Definitely, Havertz looks like having a good chance of starting at striker.
Romelu Lukaku’s continued absence against Leicester has been confirmed, albeit he’s back in training. Meanwhile, the Blues are waiting to see on the fitness of Timo Werner.
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