Thomas Tuschel has urged his Chelsea side not to fall into their comfort zone after a crucial 1-0 win over Atletico Madrid that represents the first match in a tough round of games.
Manchester United, Liverpool, Everton and Leeds are ahead in the Premier League, with Chelsea ahead of Diego Simeone welcoming Stamford Bridge into the second leg of their Champions League tie.
It will be a major test of the quality of the Blues as Chelsea remain invincible in eight matches after Tuchel took over from Frank Lampard last month.
What did Tuchel say?
After being asked about the suspension of Mason Mount and Jorginho from the second leg, Tuchel talked about the need not to become complacent after his biggest win as manager of the Blues.
“Don’t forget Jorginho, we will miss two important players [in the second leg]”These things are not easy for us,” he said at Arena National. “I am very happy with everyone’s performance, including Mason.
“Again, a good effort, a big effort, a high work rate, high intensity like that is used when we play this way. He has a big influence on our team. Honestly, now we play Man UTD, Everton, Liverpool and Leeds, it’s good that way.
“We cannot be comfortable; We cannot be lazy. These games will push us to our limits, then we will think of our solution for the second phase. “
What about match winner Giroud?
Olivier Giroud’s acrobatic overhead kick won the match on Tuesday night and left him in four of his eight games so far, with Tuchel acknowledging that the France international could play more often.
“no it was not [that we saved him for Atletico], “He added. He said,” We thought long and hard about putting him in. It was clearly a possibility that he would start against Southampton [after scoring versus Newcastle], Then we analyzed them and they are a very aggressive team and they hit the pitch and play.
“So we expected more blanks behind the last line and we wanted more runs from deep. I had only three changes because in our league, it is possible to have only three changes. I would make my decisions in the game against Southampton. Was not very happy with.
“Maybe we missed the opportunity to bring him to the end, but then I can say that I saved him for today!”
Tush continued by praising Giroud’s professionalism, fitness, and influence on the squad at the age of 34: “If you see him everyday, you can’t be surprised. He’s perfectly fit, his body is in shape and his Physicality is at the top level.
“Mentally, I really realize that he enjoys being a professional football player at this level every day and that is the level he needs to be. He trains like a 20-year-old, 24-year-old.
“He is a man who has a good mix of serious and fun in training. He is always positive and is a big factor for the group. He starts, when he comes from the bench, he has all these qualities and is good in that way. “
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