Frank Leboeuf has claimed he still thinks Timo Werner has a role to play at Chelsea this season.
The Germany international has been one of the main victims of Romelu Lukaku’s arrival this summer to become the main striker at Stamford Bridge.
It looks unlikely that Werner will get much game time playing as the central forward, which is why he’s battling it out for an attacking role either side of Lukaku.
Werner ended up with 27 direct goal contributions in 52 appearances last season, but he’s often been under the spotlight due to his poor finishing. He netted 12 goals over the course the campaign, so many felt he underachieved despite his assists.
The 25-year-old was an important part of the group that won the Champions League, but Lukaku is a clear upgrade in attack. He needs to prove to Thomas Tuchel he deserves a spot in the XI ahead of the likes of Mason Mount, Kai Havertz, Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech.
Despite making just one start in the opening four Premier League games this season, Leboeuf is still confident Werner can be important:
“He will have his role to play. He will be important at some point. Yes, he’s been disappointing, but I think he has a role to play,” Leboeuf said.
Timo Werner needs to become ruthless
If you look at the competition in the current Chelsea squad, you’ve got make every minute count that you’re on the pitch.
Werner has been overlooked in the last few games by Tuchel, but surely a chance is just around the corner given the busy fixture schedule.
His return of 19 goals in 45 Germany caps highlights his quality, plus he was a goal machine at ex-club RB Leipzig.
Chelsea fans have seen in glimpses his ability. However, he’s got to start converting all his brilliant all-round game into end product to nail down a position in this side.
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