Tuchel says Chelsea star Ziyech ‘deserves’ to play as he explains decision to bench ‘tired’ Timo Werner against Man Utd

CHELSEA boss Thomas Tuchel has revealed his decision to bench Timo Werner for their clash with Manchester United was due to the German feeling ‘tired’.

The Blues manager opted to bring in summer signing Hakim Ziyech for the crunch match at Stamford Bridge as he changed things around in attack.

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Werner has been a trusted starter for Tuchel since he took over from Frank Lampard last month[/caption]

And while he was quick to praise Ziyech for his recent performances, he also admitted his selection was impacted by the fitness of Werner.

When asked why Ziyech was starting instead of Werner, Tuchel said: “Different kind of player. He deserves now [to play].

“He had a good impact in the game against Atletico. The feeling to give Timo maybe a little break, to have him from the bench and fresh again in the fixture against Liverpool.

“He [Werner] was a bit tired, I felt him a bit tired after the many games in a row, Timo.

“So give him a rest and let the other guys perform who deserve [a chance].”

Despite scoring very few goals of late, Werner’s all-round play has been widely praised as he continues to find his feet during his first season in England.

Meanwhile, Ziyech’s lack of a consistent run in the first team has largely been the result of injury problems.

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Tuchel has praised Ziyech for his contribution against Atletico Madrid off the bench in midweek[/caption]

Tuchel remains unbeaten as Chelsea boss since taking charge at the end of January.

Four wins and two draws in the Premier League have been added to by victories in the FA Cup and Champions League, with just two goals conceded in those eight games.

If Chelsea beat Manchester United on Sunday they will move above West Ham into fourth place.