Antonio Rudiger’s amazing stats show he’s not just quick

When you ask people what Antonio Rudiger’s qualities are, many of them will default to his physical attributes – and it’s no lie that he has exceptional speed, strength and that his height makes him formidable in the air.

But his technical abilities are less well heralded. Perhaps it’s the way he runs that makes him less look capable than he is on the ball, but it’s a pure illusion, as the stats show.

In the game against Barcelona last night, perhaps the toughest of the season for Chelsea, Rudiger had a pass completion percentage of 85.7%, the highest of any starter.

Not only that, but he also completed 4 of 6 of his long balls. That’s an impressive record for anyone, but especially a defender.

There was one memorable ball in the first half that he launched about 70 yards crossfield, and that become a recurring theme for those watching Rudiger.

Those long switches of play are deadly, and Chelsea will need them more than ever in the second leg.

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