Kai Havertz was given a lot of playing time and a lot of patience by Frank Lampard, and a lot of playing time and even more patience by Thomas Tuchel.
In return, they got some special moments and some good games, but neither will feel that they really managed to unlock Havertz at his best.
Now it falls to Graham Potter to try and figure out the enigma that is the German star.
According to Havertz’ words in an interview on the Chelsea website today though, he’s very pleased with the new coach’s impact already.
“Our new coach has made a very good impression. We have a great squad and I think we are in for a good time,” he commented.
“My position is not that important to me,’ he explained about his versatility in attack. ‘Of course, it’s a bit harder for me as the number 10 because I’ve actually only played centre-forward at Chelsea for the past year-and-a-half and those are two completely different roles.
“Whether I play in the number 10, nine or on the right flank, I want to help the team and justify the coach’s trust. I can put myself in any position,” the German concluded generously.
Potter’s expertise in man management is well know, and that will be an important part of helping Havertz reach his best.
But the attacker had a good relationship with Lampard and Tuchel too – it was just tactically that they couldn’t quite figure it all out.
