Tuchel: Chelsea win shows we’re not ‘distracted’ by off-field issues

Dan Butterfield
Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has claimed his side’s thumping win over Burnley shows there not being distracted by the clubs ownership situation.

Russian owner Roman Abramovich announced his decision to sell the club earlier this week but the Blues were not affected at Turf Moor as goals from Reece James, Christian Pulisic and a brace from Kai Havertz earned an easy win.


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Chelsea has struggled in the first-half and Tuchel admitted the grabbing the opening goal shortly after half-time helped them massively.

“We played a bit more fluid in the second half. We needed a reminder of what we want to do. We needed to create more problems for them in the back four and find the spaces better. It was still very calm and trustful. We knew we could do better but we respected the place where we are.

“The first goal helped massively today. It gave us a lot of belief. When Burnley are in the situation they’re in they make it very hard for you. It was very important to stay positive and not get frustrated. We were more decisive up front. The front players stepped up and turned the game.”

The German boss was also quick to praise James, who only recently returned from injury.

“To have such a huge impact in all three games – Liverpool, Luton and today – is impressive. These positions are crucial when you play with wing-backs and want to attack with wing-backs. He was brilliant and opened the whole game for us.”

On if the off-field situation was distracting his players at all, Tuchel said: “I think the performance at Wembley also showed that we’re focused on sports.

“From then on it’s been the same. The team stepped up and didn’t get distracted and were ready to battle again today. It shows their character and I’m very proud of them.

“We played a very strong match at Wembley, we lost.

“Three days later we accepted a whole different challenge in the FA Cup at Luton, we turned the game around after twice going behind.

“Then we come to Turf Moor three days later and do it again.

“We were very impressive and I am very happy because it shows the character and that the guys have what it takes to play for Chelsea.

“They are focussed and obviously we have an atmosphere where they can still focus on football, which is good.”