Adrian Clarke looks at key tactical points in Matchweek 4.
TV Info
Finding a way to get the best out of summer signing Kai Havertz will be among Frank Lampard’s priorities ahead the visit of Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Used in three different positions in as many matches so far, the Chelsea new boy is still finding his feet in the Premier League.
Havertz was asked to play in an unfamiliar wide role in a 3-1 win at Brighton & Hove Albion, operated as a false nine against Liverpool before lining up as a No 10 in an incredible 3-3 draw at West Bromwich Albion.
Havertz's start at Chelsea
| Premier League | Total |
|---|---|
| Minutes played | 215 |
| Shots | 2 |
| Shots on target | 2 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Key passes | 3 |
The former Bundesliga star certainly looked more at home playing in a central-attacking midfield berth.
During the first two-and-a-half matches of his Premier League career Havertz did not register a single touch inside the opposition box, or a shot on goal.
But in that frenzied second period at The Hawthorns he enjoyed five touches in the box, including a shot on target and an assist.
The 21-year-old also made two of his three key passes so far in that contest.
And he has already netted a hat-trick for the Blues in a Carabao Cup win against Barnsley.
Havertz's hat-trick v Barnsley
Mason Mount and Havertz impressed as twin box-to-box midfielders who roamed in front of N’Golo Kante during the second half of Chelsea's draw at West Brom.
In matches where the opposition are likely to sit deep in a low block, we could see more of this attacking pivot supporting Chelsea's front three.
This weekend’s London derby with the Eagles could be the right moment to try to further develop that chemistry.
The duo carry a big goal threat and like to break into the opposition area. They also have the creativity to unlock stubborn defences.
Ross Barkley’s loan move to Aston Villa could be an indication that Lampard sees Mount and Havertz as players to occupy those attacking No 8 roles.
Link-up with Werner
Timo Werner is still waiting for his first Premier League goal but has looked sharp since arriving from RB Leipzig.
The forward seems comfortable on the left of attack or down the middle, which provides head coach Lampard with tactical flexibility.
Using Havertz and Mount in behind Werner is an exciting prospect, especially against Saturday's opponents who will allow the Blues to come on to them high up the pitch.
Their combined skill and movement could be hard to contain.
Target man suits Havertz
That said, Havertz has already struck up an instant rapport with Tammy Abraham.
The German played behind Abraham when he netted his left-footed hat-trick in the Carabao Cup.
Abraham supplied two assists for Havertz and dummied for him to score the other in a 6-0 victory.
Havertz is superb at timing runs to get in beyond opposition defenders, so playing off a target man works well for him.
To break down a stubborn Palace side Chelsea may well be reliant on his clever runs.
Also in this series
Part 1: Fireworks in store as fearless Leeds face Man City
Part 2: Leicester must be aware of West Ham's aerial threat
Part 4: Spurs' full-backs can pose problems for Man Utd