Thomas Tuchel has lauded Timo Werner's performances against Southampton as the German striker bagged a brace in the Blues' 6-0 win. The German coach noted that his countryman proved that he remains an important part of Chelsea's squad.
Werner proved a constant threat to Southampton by forcing saves and hitting each post and the crossbar in addition to his two goals. The forward thrived alongside Kai Havertz with support from Mason Mount and Mateo Kovacic as the Saints' high line allowed plenty of room for him to attack.
Tuchel believes the system provided the ideal situation for Werner to deliver with well-suited opponents. That ultimately proved correct.
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Speaking following the match, the German coach said: "Of course. It was his position, and it was the players around him, the connection with Mason (Mount), Kai (Havertz) and Mateo (Kovacic). He loves to play, and he has a connection with these players. He was in a double striker position, the half left position, and it was against an opponent that we could imagine we'd find spaces in behind because they play a high attack.
"So it was set out for him to deliver, honestly. We were not set out in a 4-1-4-1 with him on the side, and everything was there for him to deliver and make a statement that he has not given up, that he is still an important player of this club and this group. And he did. It was necessary, very strong, but necessary."
Werner's brace saw the former RB Leipzig star earn his fifth goal against Ralph Haenhuttl's side, out of nine Premier League goals in total. The 26-year-old also netted the vital goal in October to give the Blues the lead late on at Stamford Bridge.
