Former Chelsea midfielder Craig Burley says Kai Havertz has been ‘underwhelming’ so far and will face a battle for his place in the side when Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech are fit.
The Germany international arrived at Stamford Bridge with a £70 million price tag and great expectations off the back of a phenomenal season for Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga.
Havertz was quiet on his debut in the 3-1 win over Brighton on the opening day, where occupied a right-wing spot.
The 21-year-old was tested as a false nine in Sunday’s 2-0 loss to Liverpool, but was hooked off at half-time with the Blues reduced to 10 men and Frank Lampard looking to shore up his defence.
Chelsea’s extraordinary recruitment drive this summer saw them bring in the likes of Hakim Ziyech from Ajax, but the Moroccan picked up a knee injury in pre-season and is yet to feature, while last season’s star performer Pulisic was also deemed unready for the Liverpool clash.
But when the two attackers do eventually return, Burley foresees Havertz’s place in the side coming under threat based on his initial performances.
‘I’m sure the lad is testing his fitness and finding his feet and surroundings,’ the former Scotland international told ESPN FC.
‘Not questioning his talent, but for the first two games he’s certainly a player that when Pulisic and Ziyech are fit, he’s going to be the one coming under threat because of his first two performances.’
