Trevoh Chalobah has 'forced his way into our thinking', reveals Thomas Tuchel after the young defender impressed in Chelsea's Super Cup win over Villarreal

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Thomas Tuchel says Trevoh Chalobah has 'forced' his way into Chelsea's first-team squad and that he is 'ready' for the Premier League following his impressive performance against Villarreal on Wednesday.    

The German manager handed Chalobah his Chelsea debut in Belfast, where the Blues overcame the LaLiga side on penalties in the UEFA Super Cup. 

Tuchel felt that the youngster - who slotted into the right of a back three - was 'calm and physical' throughout the 120 minutes he played.  

Thomas Tuchel says Trevoh Chalobah (left) has 'forced' his way into Chelsea's squad this year

When asked if Chalobah was ready to play in the Premier League during his post-match interview, Tuchel said:  'Absolutely, that's why he played.

'He played good against Arsenal and he played a good game also against Bournemouth, then Arsenal, then Tottenham.

'We wanted to have guys on the field who are capable to play 90 minutes. 

'Trevoh was first in training, the very first in training and is physically strong and deserved to play by his performances so far and again today he was very strong.

The German boss handed Chalobah his Chelsea debut in Belfast as they won the Super Cup

Tuchel felt that the youngster (right) - who slotted into the right of a back three - was 'calm and physical' throughout the 120 minutes he played and he is now an option to play in the league

'He suffered in some moments but later with Azpi [Cesar Azpilicueta] by his side and Jorgi [Jorginho] close to him and helping him in tactical organisation he stepped again up.

'He never lost face and stayed calm and was physical enough to play 120 minutes. It was quite impressive.

'He forced his way into our thinking. Let's see how it goes. We still have some days to decide his personal future but in the moment he shows his value to the team.'

Having completed a successful pre-season at Chelsea, Chalobah had been linked with a season-long loan deal with Valencia.

Tuchel now believes the 22-year-old defender (right) is 'ready' for the Premier League level

However, Tuchel may now prevent his young star from leaving after he barely put a foot wrong in an accomplished performance over 120 minutes on Wednesday.

Chalobah displayed superb sprint speed to help protect his side from counter attacks, while also showing a confidence on the ball that is required in defenders in the modern game. 

Therefore, any assumptions that Chalobah would be shipped out on loan again - having spent last season with Ligue 1 outfit Lorient - will now likely be muted.