Paul Merson praises Chelsea star Mykhaylo Mudryk following Leicester City win
Paul Merson was impressed by Chelsea star Mykhaylo Mudryk in their 3-1 win over Leicester City and believes the January addition could have gotten himself on the scoresheet.
Mudryk, who was benched in Chelsea’s previous wins against Leeds United and Borussia Dortmund, was employed in the starting line-up as a striker against the Foxes. At the King Power Stadium, the winger headed the attack alongside Joao Felix and Kai Havertz. The trio appeared to be a significant threat throughout the majority of the game.
The 22-year-old had a goal disallowed for offside but made an assist to Mateo Kovacic, which was his first goal contribution in a Chelsea shirt. Mudryk posed a constant threat and showed glimpses of his ability on the night.
This will come as good news for the Blues who spent extravagant sums of money to sign the Ukrainian in the January transfer window. It was also reported that Graham Potter did not want Mudryk at Chelsea and the onus is now on the player to change his mind.
Though Mudryk had a strong performance against the Foxes and was rightfully praised by Merson, his inclusion in the starting lineup against Leicester may have alleviated such concerns. Speaking to Sky Sports (h/t Football.London), Merson claimed Mudryk was excellent and could have had a goal to his name, as he said:
“I thought Mudryk did alright. He looked dangerous.”
“He played through the middle for a lot of the game. Great movement. He scored, it was disallowed; he went too early and should have gone a little bit later with his pace.”
Merson’s judgment is fair and Mudryk could have scored his first goal for the Blues if he had timed his run better. However he appears to be on the rise and could find his stride with games coming thick and fast.
Mudryk did have a considerable influence, despite being playing out of his position, and he will be hoping to build on it for the rest of the season. Chelsea could clearly make do with an attacking talisman who could perhaps help them mount a late challenge for the top four spots.
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He may need a season to acclimatise, but the 22-year-old is a player with great caliber and has the potential to become one of the best in the league. So Chelsea fans should be patient with and he will eventually deliver.