In a pre-match press conference ahead of Chelsea’s trip to the Molineux Stadium to clash heads with Wolverhampton Wanderers tomorrow (via Football.London), Frank Lampard has provided a positive update regarding Antonio Rudiger’s injury and said, “Rudiger is fit to play. That’s a choice for myself [whether he starts]. He will have an important role. I know he has been important for the club and team since he has been here.
“Personality, character, quality. He is an international defender and we have missed him. As we have missed a few front line players who will strengthen us as a group.
“I am certainly pleased to have him back.”
Lampard has been sweating on the fitness of Rudiger during the international break. Therefore, it will be a welcome bit of news for everyone associated with the Pensioners to have the German defender back for the Wolves game tomorrow afternoon.
Rudiger’s Brilliant Spell At West London
The Berlin-born centre-back was a rock at the back for the UEFA Europa League champions last season so a lot will be expected of him if he returns against Wolves this weekend. Since joining the West London giants from AS Roma back in 2017, Rudiger has appeared in 89 matches for the Pensioners, netting four goals while providing two assists in multiple competitions.
The 26-year-old was in a good run of form defensively before his injury as he made an average of 1.0 tackles, 1.0 interceptions and 2.9 clearances per match in the Premier League last season (stats via whoscored). He has also secured 30 international caps for Germany and has registered one goal for his country so far.
What Are The German International’s Best Attributes?
Rudiger has decent pace in his locker and can make some crucial interceptions to earn possession back for his team. The German talent is a defensive powerhouse at the back and has a habit of winning most of his 50-50 aerial duels against the opposition. He has an aggressive playing style and does not back down from a challenge which makes him a commanding presence inside his own penalty area.
Rudiger Set To Be Available Vs Wolves: Massive Boost For Chelsea?
Rudiger’s availability for this weekend’s league clash at the Molineux will be a massive boost for the West Londoners and their quest to sort out their defensive concerns in the coming weeks. The ex-Roma defensive ace can lead by example and will add some calmness to Lampard’s backline that has been leaking goals before the international break.
The German centre-half could come back and help restore some confidence at the back as Chelsea try to attain some favourable results over the next few weeks.
