Tyrique George has given some insight on how Enzo Maresca wants Chelsea players to attack following Wednesday night’s victory over Ajax.
Chelsea put in an excellent attacking display as they went on to beat Ajax 5-1 in the Champions League.
George was one of the scorers at Stamford Bridge, with Estevao Willian, Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo and Marc Guiu grabbing the Blues’ other goals.
Ajax striker Wout Weghorst was taunted by Chelsea supporters during the game but did manage to score a consolation for the visitors.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca pointing from the touchline
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Enzo Maresca has told Tyrique George and his Chelsea teammates to express themselves
Even without Cole Palmer, Maresca was still able to put out a very threatening attack against Ajax. Estevao, Guiu, Facundo Buonanotte and Jamie Gittens all started for the Blues.
In the second half, George was introduced to the game, and Maresca’s message to the 19-year-old and the rest of the team was simple: express yourselves in attack.
“We’re all young and having fun,” George said via Chelsea’s official club website after the full-time whistle. “We’re having fun on the pitch and that’s it. The manager tells us to have fun and really be free when we’re in attacking areas, and that’s what we showed last night.”
Despite almost leaving Chelsea on deadline day, George has been an important player for Maresca, who has been using him up front following Liam Delap’s hamstring injury.
He has now scored in games against Ajax and Lincoln City, helping the world champions to win both of those matches.
Delap is close to making a return, which could limit George’s opportunities. But for now, he is clearly a player Maresca is going to lean on.
Tyrique George celebrates his goal with Chelsea teammate Jamie Gittens
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Tyrique George on first Champions League goal
George has come through Chelsea’s academy. Scoring for the Blues in a Champions League game is something that the England Under-21 international has always dreamt about.
“I was just itching to get on and try and score,” George said. “That’s what I did, so I’m happy. I kind of just saw the ball lying there, so I thought let me get onto it and just hit it, and it went in.
“It’s an amazing feeling. I’ve wanted it ever since I was eight years old, to score in the Champions League. It’s what dreams are made of.”
In Delap’s absence, the young attacker has certainly taken his opportunity. However, he could still leave Stamford Bridge in the near future.
In fact, it has been reported that George is likely to depart Chelsea during the January transfer window. And if he continues to shine in the Champions League, there will be plenty of suitors for his signature.