Ben Chilwell and Mykhailo Mudryk are expected to lock horns this weekend when England face Ukraine in another European championship qualifier
Chilwell sends Mudryk four-word message as Pochettino awaits Chelsea face off (Image: Photo by Michael Regan – The FA/The FA via Getty Images)×
Ben Chilwell has posted a four-word message to his Instagram story ahead of England’s upcoming clash against Ukraine. The Three Lions will lock horns with Mykhailo Mudryk’s side at the Tarczynski Arena in Wroclaw, Poland, on Saturday evening for a crucial European championship qualifier.
England have won each of their first four games, topping Group C. Meanwhile, Ukraine, who have played just three games thus far, sit second on six points with their only defeat coming against the Three Lions at Wembley in March.
Chilwell, who played a starring role in the 2-0 win over Ukraine a couple of months ago, looks set to start again for England as the only orthodox left-back selected by Gareth Southgate. Ahead of what is expected to be a closely fought game this weekend, the Chelsea defender seems happy to be back at St George’s Park.
“Good to be back,” he captioned his Instagram story. Mudryk also seems to be enjoying the international break with his Ukraine teammates, sharing a joke with goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin on social media.
Both Chilwell and Mudryk will be hoping to impress Mauricio Pochettino on Saturday night, with many fans calling for the Chelsea boss to drop the former for the latter at left-wing. Ahead of the Blues’ clash against Nottingham Forest, the 51-year-old suggested why the Ukrainian hasn’t been given the chance to displace the Englishman despite his promising performances in pre-season.
“He is a very talented player and it’s now about him feeling comfortable and strong in his body,” said Pochettino. “You cannot perform if you do not feel healthy. We are working with him in the hope he finds his best form in the next few weeks.”
After what has been a frustrating start to the season for Chelsea, Chilwell is adamant that the west Londoners are on the right track. He said: “We are moving in the right direction, every game we have controlled possession and the majority of matches we have played.
“We need to finish chances, be more ruthless and stay composed to get back into games. That’s the final bit, finishing our chances.”
Soucre: football.london