“It will be a big win” Mykhailo Mudryk set for new Chelsea role as 10-minute cameo sends clear message to Potter
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Graham Potter has many positives to take from Chelsea’s win against Leicester City, one of which is Mykhailo Mudryk’s impressive performance in the second half. While Mudryk thought he scored his first Chelsea goal after being played through by Enzo Fernandez, he was flagged offside, albeit marginally. Nevertheless, the Ukrainian’s blistering speed and ability to make runs behind the opposition’s defence are precisely why Chelsea signed him in the January transfer window. Mudryk’s role in the first half was to pin two Foxes defenders back to create space for other runners, while in the second half, he played as one of two central strikers alongside Kai Havertz. It was when Mudryk moved out to the left wing in the last 10 minutes that fans saw what he could do, as he created space for Mateo Kovacic’s goal by staying wide and outmaneuvering Ricardo Pereira. Overall, Mudryk’s performance showed why he has the potential to be a valuable asset to Chelsea.
It was Mudryk’s first direct goal involvement as a Chelsea player and one that will do his confidence the world of good. He was substituted on 82 minutes, so we only got to see the Ukrainian on the left-hand side for about 10 minutes but even in the short cameo, his talent, ability and purpose in the Blues’ team was clear to see.
Potter was clearly delighted with what he saw from Mudryk during his 82 minutes on the pitch at the weekend. The Chelsea head coach was quick to offer some perspective as well and remind everyone of the Ukrainian’s lack of experience.
“He’ll get better and better,” Potter told reporters about Mudryk post-match. “He’s a young player that hasn’t that much experience, so each game he’ll get better and better.
“His attitude is fantastic, he wants to help the team and work with the team. I’m delighted he got an assist and helped us.”
It was brief, but it was very entertaining for those 10 minutes to see Mudryk in his most natural position. It’s one Chelsea supporters should get used to because that’s clearly the role the club have in mind for him in the future.
