Tuchel sends strong message to Chelsea man amid exit rumours

Christian Pulisic has been reassured of his future at Chelsea and has been told by Thomas Tuchel he wants the United States winger to reach his true potential at Stamford Bridge.

Pulisic has been linked with a move away from west London in the summer, amid claims there is not room for both him and Hakim Ziyech.

Indeed, speculation his days could be numbered have intensified amid reports linking Chelsea to a talented Borussia Monchengladbach winger.

Tuchel, however, is adamant that Pulisic is staying at Stamford Bridge and is determined to see the talented forward flourish.

Asked if he wants Pulisic to stay at Chelsea, Tuchel gave a very definite response.

“Today a clear ‘yes’, but it’s not only my point of view, we have to see. But for me clearly yes,” he said.

“Chelsea bought Christian for a reason, for his quality, his potential. It’s our job to bring out the best in him.

“He proved in many weeks that he has the level to be a regular Chelsea player, to have a big impact in this club. It’s a challenge now to hold this level, to improve and to maintain the level and to keep improving.”

Pulisic was withdrawn from Chelsea training on Thursday with a twinge to his calf, in the latest in a string of muscle problems.

And while Tuchel says Pulisic has not suffered any severe new injury, he says their medical staff are working hard to help the winger past his spate of issues.

“We are not concerned, we are not worried, but the medical department is on that.

“Now we have little issues in the calf, he stopped training yesterday before it became an injury.

Tuchel: Kepa's confidence growing

Tuchel: Kepa's confidence growing

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“So I would not say that it’s an injury. In the moment it’s a risk management and he’s not even injured. That relies to his history of having injuries, so we do not want to enter into the same cycle.

“It’s sometimes like this and the main thing for Christian is to keep his head up, stay positive and be ready. He can have a big impact when he starts and he can have a big, big impact when he comes on from the bench with his intensity.

“And there are absolutely no decisions made for summer, there is simply no time in the moment. This is not the moment now and there is today, no need to think about it.”


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Tuchel admits relief over Tammy Abraham injury

Chelsea will face Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium on Saturday, with Tammy Abraham back in the running to feature.

Hakim Ziyech, Timo Werner, Tammy Abraham, Mason Mount, Reece James

Tuchel revealed his relief at Abraham avoiding a serious ankle injury, following Jamaal Lascelles’ challenge the Blues boss dubbed “reckless” in Monday’s 2-0 win over Newcastle.

“We’re very happy that Tammy is very, very good,” said Tuchel. “He feels very good, he’s free for training today at three o’clock.

“And if things go well, he’s in the squad (for Southampton).”

Brazil defender Thiago Silva will miss Saturday’s lunchtime kick-off clash. Despite making his return to training, the veteran won’t be risked as he continues his recovery from a thigh issue.

“Thiago will be out for the game, he’s not ready for the game,” said Tuchel.

“But Kai Havertz is back in training and can join us in Southampton.”

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