VIDEO: 'Havertz performance is a step in right direction' - Tuchel
Thomas Tuchel gives his verdict on Kai Havertz's performance against Crystal Palace. Tuchel explains Havertz had been given a second chance after his performance against Porto.
It hasn't been easy for German youngster Kai Havertz since his big money move to the Premier League from Bayern Leverkusen. The German has frequently come under criticism for his inconsistency and lack of goal contributions, however he took a further step to silencing his critics in Saturday's performance against Crystal Palace.
Chelsea put on a fine display at Selhurst Park. The 'Blues' took control of the game within eight minutes after the German, who started the match as a false-nine, opened the scoring with a fine controlled finish into the far corner. His goal was shortly followed by a smart assist to forward Christian Pulisic, who thrashed it home in the near-post. Defender Kurt Zouma effecitvely put the game to bed on the half-hour mark, rising well to head home Mason Mounts free-kick. There was a late flourish from Palace with a strong Benteke header just past the hour, however Chelsea assumed their three-goal advantage 15 minutes later with Pulisic's second of the match.
A great performance from Chelsea, and in particular from Kai Havertz, who looks to have silenced at least a few of his critics. Manager Tuchel has spoken out in praise of his fellow countryman, ahead of a vital clash in the Champions League quarter finals against Porto on Tuesday. Has Havertz done enough to justify his inclusion in the manager's starting lineup?