New recruit Romelu Lukaku’s arrival has been backed to benefit Timo Werner at Stamford Bridge, according to the Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel.
The 28-year-old Lukaku has returned to the Chelsea colours after sealing a move to the club in a big-money deal from Inter Milan where he was a proven danger in front of the goal for opposition defences.
Chelsea’s mixed fortunes in the final third of the pitch last season is understood to be a major reason why Thomas Tuchel prioritised a swoop for Lukaku with Timo Werner failing to hit the ground running in his debut campaign.
The German’s move to Stamford Bridge last summer had meant that the supporters were looking forward to Werner emulating his Leipzig success but the expectations fell way short as he struggled to adapt to life in the Premier League with Chelsea.
Tuchel, however, has voiced his belief in his pre-match remarks that the new signing at the Bridge will help Werner on the field with the latter expected to now function in the wide role for Chelsea as Lukaku will be drafted in the No.9 role.
“I truly believe that this can be a big upgrade for him.”
“Having the attention of Romelu, who likes to be in the centre of the pitch and to fight physically with defenders, can create space for Timo.
“He can now play a bit wider than he used to last season. And, then, to play around Romelu, who is like the reference as a No 9 and in the attack.
“This, hopefully, gives Timo the space to do this, to feel more freedom and that it’s easier to find more dangerous space… and to start scoring again.”
