Pundit reveals Tuchel mistake that cost Chelsea ‘thrust’ in FA Cup loss

Reece.James_.2021.TEAMtalk1

Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright feels Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel made one crucial positional error that contributed to their 1-0 FA Cup final defeat to Leicester City.

The Blues went into the Wembley encounter as slight favourites. But Youri Tielemans’ second-half strike ensured it was the Foxes who lifted the famous trophy for the first time in their history. The loss means the Stamford Bridge outfit can now concentrate on the Champions League final.

They face Manchester City on May 29 in Porto. However, there is still the small matter of trying to finish in the top four to contend with.

They currently sit fourth in the standings but are under pressure from a resurgent Liverpool. And they go up against Brendan Rodgers side once again on Tuesday in a vital league encounter.

That means the west Londoners will need to regroup in a hurry and try to move on. Tuchel has been praised for the way he has turned things around since replacing Frank Lampard in the dugout.

But Wright feels the German tactician got one thing wrong in his selection for the north London showpiece.

“I think you have to say Reece James did a good job, but I think for me that was a bit of a mistake from Tuchel,” he told BBC Sport. “I would’ve played Reece James on the right because I think they lost that thrust.”

Wright hails Leicester achievement

Leicester have become a solid unit under Rodgers and a side capable of mixing it with the big boys. Finishing in the top four will be the icing on the cake to give them a second crack at the Champions League.

Transfer Chatter: Man Utd search for new defender, Tottenham fight for Boateng

Transfer Chatter: Man Utd search for new defender, Tottenham fight for Boateng

Man Utd have devised a three-man shortlist for a new defender while Monaco have joined Tottenham in the chase for Jerome Boateng.

They gave a superb account of themselves last time, losing in the quarter-finals to Atletico Madrid in 2017. It seems as though the King Power Stadium outfit are moving in the right direction.

And Wright believes that they deserve every accolade after a sensational cup success.

“This is what it’s about. This is what you dream about,” he added. “For a club like Leicester, with everything they’ve been through, it’s fitting that they are able to celebrate this moment with their fans. I’m delighted for them.”

Following Tuesday’s trip to Stamford Bridge, Rodgers’ men conclude their Premier League campaign at home to Tottenham.

It will then be a busy summer for the club’s recruitment staff as they look to add depth to an already quality squad.

READ MORE: Pulisic sets record straight over Chelsea future amid talk of looming exit