Thomas Frank cannot afford to axe Richarlison vs Chelsea despite disastrous Newcastle showing
Thomas Frank will be expecting a huge bounce back from his players as Tottenham continue their tumultuous form.
Eddie Howe‘s Newcastle United knocked Tottenham out of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, 29 October, with Spurs putting out a rather toothless display at St James’ Park.
Joelinton should have been sent off for his challenge on Mohammed Kudus, sparking a mass brawl which had to be separated by Chris Kavanagh, but most of the positives went the way of the Magpies.
Richarlison was torn apart by Tottenham fans, having wasted multiple opportunities in front of goal, completed just nine passes, and picked up a yellow card before being hooked on 78 minutes.
However, with Chelsea on the horizon, Frank cannot yet lose hope in the Brazilian.
Richarlison and Mohammed Kudus could be the key to victory vs Chelsea
Kudus is one of the most in-form players in Europe, especially when it comes to progressive dribbling and bursting into dangerous areas, and his teammates will know all about that.
Richarlison has clearly created a special bond with the playmaker, though. According to OPTA, the duo have combined for three goals in the Premier League this season, the most common goal combination in the competition.
While the striker has not scored since his effort against Brighton last month, he has shown hints of his abilities in front of goal, most recently assisting for Pape Sarr‘s goal against Everton.
With Dominic Solanke still working towards full fitness and Randal Kolo Muani not yet finding his feet in England, the manager has no other choice but to continue putting his trust in Richarlison.
What is Richarlison’s record against Chelsea?
Enzo Maresca will certainly not be running for the hills when researching the opposition’s striker ahead of their derby on Saturday, 1 November, but the Blues have been warned.
In 12 total appearances against Chelsea, Richarlison has notched three goals and an assist, ending on the winning side six times, and only losing four of his meetings with them.
Kudus, on the other hand, will be hoping for a career-first against the Londoners, having only ever lost against the Blues without registering a single goal contribution.
His performances this season should fill supporters with hope ahead of the clash, given the former West Ham man has a goal and four assists in nine Premier League matches.