Ross Barkley of Chelsea on the turning point of the 2021-22 season under Thomas Tuchel
Speaking in an interview to the club’s official website, Chelsea star Ross Barkley has given his thoughts on the turning point for him this season under Thomas Tuchel. He has had a tough start this season and had to fight his way into the team, but he has eventually succeeded in doing so.
Barkley had spent the last season on loan at Aston Villa and had a mixed time, resulting in him falling down the pecking order when he rejoined the Blues. The competition in midfield is very high, and with multiple teammates reaching their best level this season, he had it tough initially to get into the team.
However, the 27-year-old eventually took his chances after he had impressed the boss in training. He rewarded Tuchel’s trust in him with solid performances in moments where the team needed someone to make an impact. He has been used as a substitute on most occasions, but he has been crucial in helping his side nonetheless.
“Just before the first international break I was training really well and then we had an in-house game. I scored a couple of goals and created a few and when he spoke to me afterwards I felt that he was impressed. Since then I was a major part of the group.”
The Englishman revealed the turning point that helped him earn his way back into the first team. He said it was just before the international break in an in-house game where he made his mark. The Blues boss was impressed by his performance, and subsequently, the midfielder was back in the mix.
“It was just about showing my quality and being consistent and doing my extra work, but that was the turning point, just before the days off for the first international break.”
It shows that the German coach values the performance of his players and does not give any guarantees to anyone until they prove their worth. The English midfielder was impressive against Southampton in the Carabao Cup and Burnley in the Premier League.
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He has also had substitute appearances where he made an impact on the team and helped them win the game. With N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic currently injured, he could see more chances coming his way going forward.
Barkley is a top-quality player and he showed that during his time at Everton and during a brief spell at Villa Park. He could be a valuable squad player and a smart weapon for Tuchel to use on occasions during the course of the season.