Photo by Peksi Cahyo/Getty Images
Photo by Peksi Cahyo/Getty Images
There have already been a few surprises at Chelsea this summer. The signings of Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck, the 6-4 against Western Sydney, and the return of Mykhailo Mudryk.
Going into the summer, there was no deadline or indication that Mudryk would be available for selection come the new season. However, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) agreed to resolve his case.
It means that after more than 18 months sidelined, Mudryk is back in and among the Chelsea squad ahead of the new season. The obvious question now is, can Mudryk make an impact at Chelsea?
Or does he need to go on loan and join a club where he is going to be first choice? Well, perhaps his behaviour behind the scenes since returning to the club might convince Xabi Alonso to make a decision.
What has Mudryk been like behind the scenes since his return?
According to The Athletic, 25-year-old Mudryk was considered a bit of a ‘loner’ before his ban. Perhaps unsurprising, given he was a youngster in a new country with the weight of a £90m fee on his shoulders.
Chelsea v Juventus - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Asuka Chan/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
But the report states that since Mudryk returned to Chelsea, he has been full of ‘smiles and hugs’. The winger has attempted to connect with as many personnel at Chelsea as possible, coming out of his shell.
It is quite clear that Mudryk, who has since played three times as a substitute against Juventus, Milan and Johor Darul Ta’zim, is simply happy to be back in and amongst it. But does Mudryk need to go on loan?
Mudryk’s change in attitude should convince Alonso to keep him
There is no doubting his ability on the pitch. Despite such a long time away from the pitch, Mudryk showed what he is capable of with a gorgeous cross on Sunday that resulted in Chelsea’s third goal.
Chelsea's pre-season results
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It forced chaos and eventually, an own goal. But his attitude off it should be enough to convince Alonso to keep him around at Chelsea next season, even if he is going to struggle to get much game time.
Reports say Chelsea have been inundated with interest. Frank Lampard’s Coventry are among the clubs supposedly keen; Lampard worked with Mudryk at Chelsea. Alonso wants good characters in the building.
If what is reported about Mudryk is true, then Alonso would do well to keep the Ukraine star at Stamford Bridge and slowly introduce him back into the team. Certainly, fans will be delighted to see him play.