Tuchel wants Pulisic to be patient

Christian Pulisic remains an “important player” for Chelsea despite not having started any of the previous nine Premier League games, according to boss Thomas Tuchel.

The German’s appointment has seen the Blues go on an 11-game unbeaten run.

But Pulisic has started just one match, the 1-0 win over Barnsley in the FA Cup.

The American winger’s lack of minutes on the pitch has led to increasing speculation he will leave in the summer, but Tuchel said having to bide your time was just part of playing for a big club.

“When you sign and play for Chelsea, it is part of the job description to be impatient and patient at the same time,” Tuchel said.

“All of my players are competitors and all want to play every single minute. All show the hunger and the desire and this is what Christian shows.

“At the same time, when you’re not selected, you have to also be patient, not lose confidence and be ready any time – because it can happen any time.”

Pulisic has started just nine league games this season, scoring one goal – with nine further appearances from the bench.

Tuchel added: “When it was possible for him to start around Sheffield United and Barnsley games, he was one game unavailable one game came too soon and Barnsley wasn’t too easy for him.

“If you turn it around, it’s the duty of the players to show up and really earn to play. This is what Christian does.

“I have nothing to complain about. I feel him in the last days he is very positive and doing the best in his situation.”

When asked about Pulisic’s future Tuchel said there were a “lot of ifs” in suggesting he could leave.

“It is too far ahead,” Tuchel explained. “We have so many games and he is in my plans.

“He is an important player. He has the potential to be decisive for us from the bench and and a beginner. But his job is to be ready like everybody else.”