“Had chances”- Tuchel gives verdict on underused summer signing’s performance in cup win over Saints

Thomas Tuchel gives his thoughts on the performance of Saul Niguez in their win against Southampton

Speaking to Chelsea TV (h/t Metro), Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has expressed his thoughts on the performance of Saul Niguez following the penalty shootout win against Southampton in the Carabao Cup.

Saul joined the Blues from Atletico Madrid in the summer for a loan fee of £3.4m after he had a rough couple of seasons in Spain. There is also an option to make the move permanent for £30m next season.

However, the Spaniard has had a tough start to his career at Stamford Bridge especially considering his dismal debut against Aston Villa. But he was handed his third start of the season and performed well compared to his previous appearances despite uncertainty surrounding his appearance in this match before kick-off.

‘We thought maybe he would be struggling with the intensity and thought about [substituting him after] 70 minutes, 75 [minutes], but he got better and better, had chances and shots.”

Tuchel has admitted that he is happy with the 26-year-old and how he played in the match. He also said that this is a step in the right direction for the player. This could be a huge breakthrough for the midfielder as he impressed his boss.

‘It was a good match, it was a huge step in the right direction for him. I am happy. We thought let’s keep him [on the pitch] and give him the minutes. It was a good step for him.’

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The Spain international is handed a big boost from the German coach’s words and would want to build on this performance. Chelsea would be hoping that this is the breakthrough they were expecting from Saul and he would continue to grow in their shirt.