Tuchel shows no-nonsense approach

Southampton – Thomas Tuchel admitted he was “unhappy” with Callum Hudson-Odoi’s attitude after dragging off the Chelsea winger soon after his introduction as a substitute in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Southampton.

Hudson-Odoi (right) was sent on as a half-time replacement for Tammy Abraham, but his afternoon ended in embarrassment when he was replaced to make way for Hakim Ziyech in the 76th minute.

Blues boss Tuchel made no attempt to hide his frustration with the England international’s lack of effort.

“We brought in Callum Hudson-Odoi but I was not happy with his attitude, energy and counter-pressing. I took him off and we demand 100%,” Tuchel said.

“I feel he is not in the right shape to help us. I was not happy with his body language.

“It was a hard decision but tomorrow it is forgotten and he has all possibilities to start against Atletico Madrid,” Tuchel said, referring to the Champions League last-16 game tomorrow.

Chelsea trailed to a first half goal from Japan star Takumi Minamino at St Mary’s.

Mason Mount came to the rescue as he won and converted the second half spot-kick that extended Tuchel’s unbeaten run to seven matches in all competitions since he replaced Frank Lampard in January.

Chelsea remain fourth in the Premier League after their run of five successive wins came to an end and stood to fall out of the top four if West Ham beat Tottenham yesterday.

In a performance reminiscent of the issues that plagued Lampard, Chelsea monopolised possession without delivering the knockout blow and paid for a defensive lapse.

Former Paris Saint Germain boss Tuchel will demand a much-improved display against Atletico.

“Clearly yes, we had all the chances and all possibilities to take the win,” Tuchel said.

After losing six consecutive league matches for the first time in their history, even a scrappy point was a welcome boost for Southampton. –