Set routine will keep team on track, says Chelsea boss

THOMAS Tuchel believes having a set routine will help steer Chelsea to success this season – despite well-documented off-field issues at the club.

The Blues host Newcastle in the first game at Stamford Bridge since the UK Government placed sanctions on oligarch owner Roman Abramovich.

All of his assets have been frozen due to alleged association with Russian President Vladimir Putin, a move that will have drastic consequences for the London club.

Chelsea are unable to operate in the transfer market, extend contracts, sell merchandise or make matchday revenue – meaning Toon fans who have already bought their ticket could be the last away supporters at the Bridge this season.

Despite the shock announcement, Tuchel took his side to Norwich just hours later and claimed a comfortable 3-1 victory.

After the game, the manager insisted a “fixed schedule” will help the squad maintain its focus during the business end of the campaign.

He said: “It helps to have a fixed schedule. We arrived, had lunch together, had a little break, pre-match meal and tactical meeting, set-piece meeting, and then you go. So it helps you to be in this mode.

“Of course, there was a lot of distraction, another level of distraction actually with the sanctions. We could feel it, the players talk about it, they’re aware of it. We accepted it.

“Full credit, the team showed very good character and we can be proud that they produced performances like this under the circumstances. It tells us we are right to trust them, that the attitude is right, and the culture of the club is right.”

Tuchel also refused to condemn Chelsea supporters who chanted Abramovich’s name throughout the victory at Carrow Road.

He added: “I did not hear them and did not understand them. It is the first time that I hear about it so I prefer not to comment. Sorry.”