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‘A huge step forward’ – Thomas Tuchel delighted with Saul Niguez after Chelsea midfielder finds form against Tottenham

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CHELSEA boss Thomas Tuchel has praised on loan midfielder Saul Niguez after his steady performance against rivals Tottenham in the Carabao Cup semi-final.

The European champions made light work of Spurs, winning 2-0 in the first game of the two-legged affair.

Saul was subbed off in the second half after an encouraging displayCredit: GETTY IMAGES

And Saul started for Chelsea, only his seventh of the season.

The Spaniard won eight duels, made seven tackles and recovered the ball six times.

On Saul’s promising performance, Tuchel said: “He has digested his experiences here in the beginning, when he maybe did not expect it to be like this.

“Now he would certainly not be the first player to struggle with the switch to England.

“But he’s open, fully focused and totally committed to the team.

“I’m very happy he had a performance like that, which was a huge step forward.”

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Tuchel was also impressed with striker Romelu Lukaku.

The Belgian started his first match for the Blues since his controversial interview.

Lukaku kept himself busy against Spurs and was a nuisance inside the opposition’s half.

Tuchel said: “I am happy with the performance, I liked how he played. He was strong, involved and showed huge commitment in our defensive work which was important.

“He was always dangerous and used his body, was always involved in dangerous situations.

Saul turned in his best performance in a Chelsea shirt

“I expected it honestly because Romelu can handle pressure and adversity.

“He seemed to be relaxed after the decision was made, after we finished our talks, and after he finished his talks.

“The decision was made and I felt him relaxed enough to have a performance like this.”

Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk

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