USA coach backs Christian Pulisic for starring Chelsea role

By Sammy Wynne | 29 March 2021

USA coach backs Pulisic for starring Chelsea role

USA head coach Gregg Berhalter is backing Christian Pulisic to play a big role in Chelsea's push for the top four, despite a recent lack of game time.

Christian Pulisic has been backed by USA head coach Gregg Berhalter to play an important role in Chelsea's push for the top four.

The 22-year-old has struggled for game time at Stamford Bridge since the arrival of Thomas Tuchel, only making three starts since the end of January.

Pulisic worked with Tuchel at Borussia Dortmund but, despite this, he has not managed to lock down his position in the German's Chelsea side.

However, his boss at the national team has backed him to do well in London, telling reporters: "Now with the new manager's coming in, he's finding his footing again, he had a really strong weekend before he came into camp.

"And we expect him to continue to push on. He's a quality player who can make the difference in the attacking third and I can see him getting more minutes as the season unfolds.

"Regarding Christian, I think he's done a great job at Chelsea. First, embracing the challenge of coming to terms with the Premier League. You see, players like [Timo] Werner who has difficulties adapting from the Bundesliga to the Premier League.

"You could see it takes a toll on players, they have to adapt — and I think he [Pulisic] has done a good job adapting."

The USA youngster has been linked with a move to Liverpool and Manchester United recently, with reports suggesting that he is unhappy with his lack of game time at Stamford Bridge.

Pulisic only has two goals in 28 appearances for Chelsea this season.