A solid and convincing win for Chelsea. Not many mistakes, if any, were made. The attack was fluent and efficient, the defense was rock-solid, and the midfield did its job. Here are three lessons learnt:
1. False nine is the way to go
Giving Timo Werner’s lack of goals, it was time to reform the way the front three played. In response, Thomas Tuchel has opted to experiment with Kai Havertz, Timo Werner, and another winger as the main force of attack. Thus far, it has worked very well.
But more interestingly, the key to making it work is Kai Havertz. The attacking midfielder provides directness and versatility. Which in turns, allows for Timo Werner to make runs in behind the defense, or make the correct pass for the assist. This also allows the likes of Hakim Ziyech to stay central and express himself with his through balls.
Combining all of these three aspects allows for the three players to rotate, interchange, and occupy different positions. This has become the solution to breaking down oppositions that might sit back and defend. Although this was not the case against Fulham, it was a good experiment for the difficult games to come. Even if the opposing team is not the defensive type, Chelsea has enough attacking players to make the system work and score crucial goals.
2. Billy Gilmour returns
After a bad injury, and lack of opportunities, this was the perfect chance for the youngster to make a comeback. This was not his usual outstanding performance where he broke an entire team’s midfield with one move. But still made some magic work.
At first, Gilmour looked slow and rusty. But after the 30’ he was controlling Chelsea’s non-existing midfield.
Gilmour had a couple if moments of magic by showing that he has all the potential of being a world class midfielder. His dribbling out of danger, short and simple passing, and long forward balls were spot on. Surely, he still does not start over other senior players, but at this rate, it is a matter of time.
Keeping this performance in mind and given then lack of manpower at Tuchel’s disposition, Gilmour should play more often for the remainder of the season. This will serve the team well in the short- and long-term basis.
3. Kai Havertz is as good as advertised
Despite not being as consistent as he should be, Kai Havertz is a capable player. The German international is a great attacking force and he is direct as he is composed. Although his composure can be a weakness, he has managed to turn it into a strength. Against Fulham, Havertz scored two goal by acting as the team’s striker.
But that was only half of his performance. The other half was always making the right pass, dropping into midfield to retrieve the ball and close down the space, and not forcing the attack. These types of performances are a promise of the bright future for the German international carries with him. It also gives reassurance that he can be relied upon when Chelsea needs an answer in the attacking front.
What lessons did you learn from this match? Let us know in the comments and on Twitter!