MYKHAILO MUDRYK finally scored his first goal for Chelsea after 10 months at Stamford Bridge… before being hauled off at half-time with a suspected injury.
The Ukrainian, 22, took the ball down brilliantly and slotted under Bernd Leno to give the Blues the lead against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Monday evening.
It ends a run of 23 games without a goal since arriving at Stamford Bridge.
And it will undoubtedly alleviate some of the pressure for the man who came with an £88million transfer fee on his back.
However, he did not have long to savour the moment as he was replaced by Ian Maatsen at the break.
And it is expected to be an injury issue that forced him to come off in a major blow to the player and club.
Reacting to the goal, one fan said: “This moment meant the world to Mudryk. Been working so hard and getting slandered left & right by the media.
“Can see him really kicking off from here! 💙👊”
Another added: “Mudryk first ever goal man I’m soo happy for him they doubted him 😭💙.”
While a third replied: “So damn happy for Mudryk 🔥. His work and hunger deserved that beautiful goal.”
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Mudyrk is one of a host of Chelsea players that have been criticised for their performances in recent months.
New owner Todd Boehly has spent more than £1billion across the last three transfer windows.
But Chelsea have gone backwards on the pitch, finishing 12th in the Premier League last season.
And heading into the clash with Fulham, they had won just one of their opening six matches.
But during his pre-match press conference before Monday night’s West London derby, manager Mauricio Pochettino took the opportunity to insist fans remain patient with Mudryk.
He said: “If you ask me about Mischa [Mudryk], he’s a very talented player of course, but you need to go with him very slowly.
“Cultural and everything is completely different to Latin people, from different countries or part of the world.
“He’s now trying to be more open, to adapt and be more involved in every situation, not only on the field but outside also.
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“I think he’s doing a massive effort to try to integrate himself and to understand better what it means to play like a team.
“He’s unique. I can’t find a player to say he is similar, I can’t remember one. It’s a good challenge for him, and it’s a good challenge for us.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
