Cesar Azpilicueta: Saul Niguez determined to bounce back from disappointing Chelsea debut
According to the Metro, Chelsea skipper Cesar Azpilicueta has come out and praised fellow Spaniard Saul Niguez who had a rather underwhelming debut for the Blues against Aston Villa.
The Atletico Madrid star joined the Blues on a season-long with late this summer. A dynamic player on his day, his bow for the club was anything but impressive.
Saul started the game at Stamford Bridge but was pulled for Jorginho at half-time. Chelsea went on to win the game 30 but the 26-year-old still has a point to prove.
Thomas Tuchel, not one for subtlety admitted that the player made a number of mistakes on the night. Azpilicueta has now revealed that Saul has reacted well to the criticism and is determined to make amends.
“His response has been absolutely spot on. His desire to improve, asking questions, he wants to adapt as quick as possible.”
Azpilicueta is well aware of the midfielder’s ability. He goes on to add that it is just a matter of time before his compatriot shines.
“He arrived in a new country, had just a few training sessions, first game against a good opposition, they were very aggressive, it’s normal sometimes you need a bit more time to adapt.”
Azpilicueta goes on to add that Saul has the full support of the Chelsea side. There appears to be little doubt that the Spaniard will turn out to be a key player in the games to come.
“I’m sure he’ll keep growing and help the team because we need it from everybody. I’m sure he’ll be an important player in the season.”
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Chelsea begins the defence of their UEFA Champions League crown against Zenit St Petersburg on Tuesday. Whether Niguez will get the nod to start remains to be seen.