‘Very talented’: Chelsea manager thinks he knows why £89m star has struggled at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has backed Mykhailo Mudryk to turn it around and be a massive success at Stamford Bridge.

The Ukrainian has struggled for form since Chelsea beat Arsenal to his signing in January. He looked sharp in pre-season with fans thinking he would be able to showcase his potential this season.

Two underwhelming games before an injury ruled him out of the win against Luton Town has meant he has to play catch-up again and earn his minutes.

But manager Mauricio Pochettino says he is clearly talented but needs support and continuity. The Chelsea boss said ahead of the game against Nottingham Forest this weekend. “He is a very talented player. He needs to first of all, before talking about football, feel comfortable, and feel really strong in his body, he suffered from the beginning.”

The signing of Cole Palmer has also raised questions about the club’s plan for the Ukrainian but Pochettino hinted the competition might be what is needed to get the best out of him.

He added: “I remember the Euros he only played one game, and was never consistent in training always something happened. We are focused on trying to help him be really strong and healthy and feel good after starts to perform.

“No one can perform if you don’t feel strong in your body. All of the areas he needs to feel good and we are working. Hope in the next weeks he starts to find his form.”

Chelsea will hope to record back-to-back league wins for the first time when they take on Steve Cooper’s side tomorrow.