Former Chelsea defender Ashley Cole backs Timo Werner and also calls him underrated

Ever since Timo Werner has joined Chelsea, he has been subject to criticism. Some of it may even be justified as he has not been in great form and has often come up with some horrible misses. However former Chelsea defender Ashley Cole feels that the German striker plays a very pivotal role in Thomas Tuchel’s style of play and is also highly underrated as a player.

Werner made his move to Stamford Bridge last season from RB Leipzig where he earned his accolades and was regarded as one of the most prolific strikers in Europe. However, his inability to live up to the expectations has resulted in him getting criticised regularly for his wasteful nature in front of the goal.

But Cole feels that Werner’s overall contribution in attack is often overlooked by fans. “I really think he’s underrated. Yes he’s missed some big chances and opportunities,” the former Chelsea defender told Sky Sports.

“As a coach, as a manager, you always look to say ‘is he in the right spots, is he in the right positions to strike and convert them?’

“But I think the way [Thomas] Tuchel sets up and the way he wants them to play through the lines, combined with the diagonal passes, he’s pivotal in that role, running into the space and running into areas where Mason [Mount] can pick the ball up.”

Although Werner did not score in the London derby against Fulham, he did provide an assist for his compatriot Kai Havertz in Chelsea’s 2-0 win in the Premier League. Werner has scored six goals in the Premier League along with seven assists this season and Cole along with Tuchel and others feel that the best is yet to come from the German.

Werner missed a sitter against Real Madrid in their 1-1 draw in the Champions League semi finals. After the game, Tuchel agreed that Werner’s finishing has let him down but he feels that the 25-year-old has that mentality to get back to his best.

The German tactician also gave a detailed explanation on how Werner’s movements in the final third create space for others which overall helps Chelsea to break down opposition defences. Tuchel said, “He (Werner) is a professional guy, a top guy, he works hard. He is in positions and from there on we go.

“We will never stop pushing, we will never stop believing and I have the feeling that everybody accepts the situation like it is and as a striker it is easy, you score the next game and nobody speaks about it.”