Tuchel tells Christensen to sign deal
THOMAS TUCHEL has challenged Andreas Christensen to prove his commitment to Chelsea by signing a new contract. The Blues manager thought an agreement had been reached with Christensen, whose deal expires next summer. But the extension remains unsigned after the Denmark defender’s demands changed. The 25-year-old has not played since the international break, having been benched for Chelsea’s last three games. ‘We have the hope that it (Christensen’s lack of action) influences the contract situation a little bit,’ said Tuchel, hinting that the issues are connected. ‘My understanding weeks ago was that Andreas wants the same as me and the club. But we have been waiting a long time for confirmation. ‘How he acts on the pitch, he needs to act now off the pitch and walk the talk. He tells us he loves Chelsea and he wants to stay. He is a big part of a big club. We want the commitment.’ Tuchel takes his league leaders to Watford tonight hoping Romelu Lukaku will be revitalised following his enforced rest. He said: ‘We still believe (Lukaku) can make the difference for us. At the same time, we will be patient.’