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Four solutions for Chelsea at the striker position in a 3-4-3

By Gabe Henderson

Chelsea's German striker Timo Werner (R) celebrates scoring his team's fourth goal with Chelsea's English striker Tammy Abraham (L) during the English Premier League football match between Chelsea and Sheffield United at Stamford Bridge in London on November 7, 2020. - Chelsea won the game 4-1. (Photo by Mike Hewitt / POOL / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by MIKE HEWITT/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Chelsea's German striker Timo Werner (R) celebrates scoring his team's fourth goal with Chelsea's English striker Tammy Abraham (L) during the English Premier League football match between Chelsea and Sheffield United at Stamford Bridge in London on November 7, 2020. - Chelsea won the game 4-1. (Photo by Mike Hewitt / POOL / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by MIKE HEWITT/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) /
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LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 10: Kai Havertz of Chelsea celebrates after scoring their team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Chelsea at Selhurst Park on April 10, 2021 in London, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 10: Kai Havertz of Chelsea celebrates after scoring their team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Chelsea at Selhurst Park on April 10, 2021 in London, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) /

3. A false nine

The most creative solution to Chelsea’s striker deficiency is turning to a false nine. The phrase alone is enough to bring back flashbacks of a failed tactical change during the final days of Antonio Conte’s reign. That said, the Blues are in much better hands than they were then as it relates to attacking options—the main reason being the club’s wunderkind.

Havertz was deployed as a false nine numerous times last season under both Lampard and Tuchel. His spectacular showings against Crystal Palace and Fulham toward the end of the season gave spectators a glimpse of what he can accomplish when tasked with starting up front. In those two contests, the German youngster scored three goals and added an assist. His stats were not eye-popping during his maiden season in England (nine goals and nine assists), but he did add those aforementioned contributions during his minimal time at center forward. Simply put, much like Mason Mount, the 22-year-old is someone that has to start for Chelsea. This is regardless of position.

Havertz is well-suited for this role because of the technical ability he possesses. He is one of the best finishers in Europe and he can score many different ways. The versatile youngster possesses a lethal left foot and his height helps him get a good head to the ball. Havertz is no slouch with his right foot either. In addition to being one of the continent’s most talented finishers, his play style fits that of a false nine. Havertz has a tendency to drift throughout a match. This allows him to find and create space easily, similar to his compatriot, Thomas Muller.

The presence of Havertz on the Blues’ roster puts fans at ease as we turn the corner and head into next season. If Chelsea is unable to make any moves at the striker spot, it is not doomed thanks to Havertz. The thought of him getting looks up top actually excites many across the fan base, and for good reason.

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