Timo Werner has been tasked by head coach Thomas Tuchel to “take and protect” his spot in Chelsea’s starting lineup for the upcoming campaign.
Werner hinted earlier this week that he might leave Stamford Bridge in order to secure regular playing time ahead of the World Cup.
According to the Daily Mail, the Germany international said, “I could be happy anywhere.” I think the manager always has different ideas, different thoughts, and what you need in different games, and I think in many games I was not in his thoughts, so I try to change that.
“It is clear I want to play more and I should play more to first be in good shape for the World Cup and also, to have a chance to play at the World Cup.
The comments came after the versatile forward scored four times in 15 Premier League starts and six substitute appearances in 2021-22.
Tuchel, on the other hand, has revealed that he was “surprised” by the 26-year-comments, old’s and believes that he should be focused on trying to “show quality” in order to keep his starting spot.
Tuchel told reporters following Chelsea’s friendly against Charlotte on Wednesday night, “I’m surprised, I would be very happy as a young guy having a contract at Chelsea Football Club.” I’d be one of the most content people on the planet.
“He needs to get his game time. Show quality, take your place and defend your place. I would be one of the happiest people on the planet having a contract with Chelsea. If he said this, I do not understand.”
Werner was scheduled to play against Charlotte, but he was one of several Chelsea players who were ruled out due to injury, including Kepa Arrizabalaga, Cesar Azpilicueta, and Ross Barkley.
Tuchel added that it was down to “hamstring problems and we didn’t take the risk” ahead of the upcoming friendlies and start to the new season.