Tuchel speaks on the importance of this 22-year-old defender

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel has hailed Malang Sarr on his improvement so far this season.

Tuchel revealed he is delighted Sarr’s performance, who the Blues had wanted to sign out on loan, but no club had shown interest in him.

He ended up staying back at Stamford Bridge and has made six starts for the Blues this season, including during their Wednesday’s EFL Cup tie against Tottenham Hotspur.

Tuchel, in a pre-match statement ahead of their match against  Chesterfield in the third round of the FA Cup, revealed the importance of the Frenchman.

Speaking to the club’s official website, Tuchel said: “He played a good match again, very good. Very happy that he did so. When we needed him, relied on him, he was reliable and he was there. Very good. He knows his role very clear.

“He appreciates to be in the team, and when is necessary, he steps up and shows he can be a strong teammate and player.”

Sarr started for Chelsea during their match vs Chesterfield on Saturday night as he was paired alongside Andreas Christensen at the centre back.