I love his approach,” Graham Potter backs Chelsea star Mykhaylo Mudryk amidst player’s rough page

Mudryk breakes his duck after his maiden assist in the Premier League


I love his approach,” Graham Potter backs Chelsea star Mykhaylo Mudryk amidst player’s rough page

Chelsea manager Graham Potter was all praise about his Ukrainian winger Mykhailo Mudryk after the 3-1 win over Leicester City on Saturday. The manager has slowly clawed his way into form after a horrendous start to the year winning the last two matches. 

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Talking about the explosive winger, Potter said, “He’ll get better and better. He’s a young player that hasn’t that much experience, so each game he’ll get better and better.” He also went on to add, “He’s a player we believe in a lot.” Mudryk made his first goal contribution in the Premier League since signing for a huge €70 million in January. 

He was benched by Potter in the match against Leeds United. Chelsea showed a brilliant attacking display at the King Power Stadium beating the Foxes with goals from Ben Chillwell, Kai Havertz, and Mateo Kovacic. 

The 23-year-old cushioned a cross from Havertz only for Kovacic to masterfully volley it home deep into the second half. This win means that the Blues have won three matches consecutively since early October. Potter will definitely feel relieved after the second consecutive win after a dismal run of five matches without a win. Mudryk, despite being a winger, was used as a striker in the match as his average position was often higher than Havertz’s. Despite the assist, Mudryk had an average game by his quality which he has failed to show till now.

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Why is Mudryk not performing?

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Despite his assist, Mudryk was not the brightest star for Chelsea. He was signed for his flare and creativity from the wing, which even in this match, was not there. In his 82 minutes on the pitch, the Ukrainian completed just 13 passes. He had 37 touches of the ball and lost the ball 15 times. He was also unsuccessful in completing a single dribble. 

These stats raise a serious question about the future of the player in the Premier League. But, there is another argument that needs to be considered. Coming from the Ukrainian league, the player would take time to get used to the pace and roughness of the PL. 

He is also inexperienced when it comes to top-flight football. This was the player’s 44th senior appearance despite being 23. Mudryk performs best when he can isolate defenders, which is difficult in the English game. His pace being is best attribute, Mudryk needs space to run behind the defence. Chelsea is a top-tier club so opponents will often set themselves in a low block, much to Mudryk’s discomfort.

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Judging by these facts, it is certain that Mudryk needs to add a new layer to his game to justify his signing. However, his age is on his side so calling him a flop will be a complete injustice. His success in the Blues will depend heavily on his adaptability and willingness to learn, which Potter claims, he has in abundance. Potter has also placed faith on the player as he said, “When he arrived he was at the start of a pre-season so to come in to hit the Premier League running isn’t so easy. He’ll be in the squad.” Only time will tell whether he will be able to repay the trust.

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