Rio Ferdinand has snubbed Virgil van Dijk in naming the Premier League’s best centre-back in the Premier League since Thomas Tuchel took charge.
The former Manchester United defender has named Chelsea’s Antonio Rudiger as the best in his positions in the league right now, in what was a surprising call.
Under Tuchel, Chelsea have become a superb force in the league, particularly at the back.
And the man leading the show is Rudiger, the 28-year-old German who’s enjoying his time under his fellow national boss.
And Ferdinand, on his YouTube channel, named him the best in the league at the moment.
He said: “Since Tuchel has come I think he’s arguably been the best centre-back. I think him and Dias would have been close but the effect he has had on his team has been immense. Under Frank [Lampard], it was evident he wasn’t Frank’s cup of tea.
“He didn’t really like him. There were rumours they were trying to put him in the market to be sold.
‘In Germany, he’s always been highly thought of. But when the manager doesn’t rate you and you can feel that, I don’t care who you are your confidence takes a beating and it’s hard to perform at that level.’
Contract issues
Rudiger however is in a sticky situation owing to the fact he has just one year remaining on his contract.
Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid are reportedly hopeful of signing him on a free transfer – but Tuchel has said he is opening to find a way to tie the player down.
“I hope that they find solutions, but it’s not only between coaches and players, and what we wish for and that’s why it’s between the club, the players and the agent at the moment,” the Chelsea boss said via the Mail.
“We hope that they find the solution and everything I can say, he plays excellent, and since a long time very consistent, on a very high level.”
Featured image: Getty
