The curious case of Christian Pulisic has dominated the news as the well sought after forward has been relegated to a bit-part role since making his big-money move from Dortmund. The forward was expected to play a big role under Frank Lampard but appears not to convince the Blues Legend of his qualities.
Pulisic is known for his pace, dribbling, and ability to score goals but this has not been shown since making his move this summer. His case is similar to that of Salomon Kalou who played for the club about a decade ago.
Kalou was of a similar ink of a wide forward who could dribble, score and work hard for the team but was never a first-team regular. Pulisic has greater potentials than the Ivorian but at a club like Chelsea, it is easy to be quickly labeled as a flop in a competitive club like Chelsea.
Pulisic is still young but has been kept off the team by Willian, and Pedro. The return of Callum Hudson-Odoi has also relegated him further. However, he possesses the mental strength and ability to fight his way into contention.
Chelsea will definitely need him this season with the Blues involved in different competitions, but he would need to play a bigger role due to his hefty fee. If it was to be any other person apart from Lampard, they would be under serious pressure to play him.
It would be interesting to see how these pans out as the clamor is getting louder for the inclusion of the USA international into the first team.
Chelsea are currently fifth on the EPL table two points off Manchester City and could play a major part in this season’s title race if their good form continues. Pulisic would be hoping to play a key role in the coming weeks.