Pundit Micah Richards has now given praise to one Chelsea loanee for his performance in Europe this week.
He told ‘The Rest is Football’ that he was really impressed with the player’s performance in the Champions League on Tuesday.
With Chelsea not competing in any form of European football at this stage, they are instead looking at those who are either on loan from the club or formally represented them.
There were plenty on show in Munich on Wednesday, where it was Thomas Tuchel showing his credentials that Chelsea fans are all too familiar with after winning the competition in 2021.
Ian Maatsen stars in the Champions League
One of their actual loanees was at his best in the competition too this week, withIan Maatsen finding the net and helping Borussia Dortmund reach the semi-finals.
The Dutchman is currently only temporarily away from Stamford Bridge, however is reportedly keen to make that move permanent.
Richards believes the 22-year-old deserves praise for his display in Europe, and also how he was able to turn his fortunes around this season.
Micah Richards praises Ian Maatsen
He said: “I want to give a shout out to Maatsen. I watched Burnley in the Championship a lot, he is on loan from Chelsea, he scores a goal.
“He is one I really thought would have a key part in what Chelsea wanted to do this season. It didn’t transpire to him but he scores in the quarter-finals and all round game was good.”
It has been claimed today that there are actually some members of staff at the club who would be keen for him to remain there beyond this summer.
At this point this feels unlikely though, with the club needing to sell a number of players this summer in order to allow them to spend big again in the upcoming transfer window.
