Thomas Tuchel explains Christian Pulisic omission against Newcastle United
Speaking after the win over Newcastle, Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel went on to give a vague explanation about omitting Christian Pulisic (h/t Football.london).
Pulisic did not start the game, nor was he called on from the bench. This has become a usual sight under Tuchel which has led to some concerns. The 47-year-old provided an explanation for the same.
“Today, the first change was already made in the first half from injury and Christian was a very tight decision if he starts again after the cup game, or if he comes on from the bench. During the match, we did what we normally do which is to only change to win the match.
Pulisic has been a fringe player under Tuchel starting just one game and coming on from the bench on three occasions. The pair were expected to flourish given their previous association at Borussia Dortmund but that has hardly been the case.
Nonetheless, there have been concerns about Pulisic’s fitness since his return from injury. He has played very few minutes since January and does not look anywhere close to pulling off two games every week.
However, the newly-appointed manager insisted that the USMNT star has an important role to play for the team.
“He deserves to start, or to come in but I could only use three guys. I hope he keeps on going and he will make an important impact for us in the future.”
Pulisic’s form has also been on the down-low with just a goal and assist each in the league so far this term.
Another factor has been the tactical rejig under Tuchel. A switch to a 3-4-2-1 means that there is no space for a winger like Pulisic who likes to dribble from the wider areas. His talents could be wasted in a wing-back role while he is unsuited to play in a more central area.
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With Tuchel producing the results with his tactics and formation, it looks like it could be a while before Pulisic gets to feature on a more regular basis. Still, Tuchel regards him as an essential player and hopes the American can deliver when called upon.