Tuchel explains Mount's drop in form for Chelsea

Thomas Tuchel has opened up on Mason Mount’s dip in form for Chelsea in recent weeks.

Thomas Tuchel admits Mason Mount hasn’t exerted ‘his usual high standards’ recently, but he believes the midfielder’s struggles are due to fatigue and playing out of his favored role.

Mount has been one of Tuchel’s star performers since the German became Chelsea manager in January, but he has struggled in recent weeks.

The 22-year-old had a very quiet second-half in Saturday’s 1-0 FA Cup final defeat to Leicester City and missed a chance to score at Wembley.

But while conceding Mount isn’t at his best right, Tuchel has warned against placing too much expectation on the youngster.

“We tried to give Mason a little break recently because he gave a lot in the Real Madrid games and he has been so decisive for us,” the Blues boss told the club’s website.

“We didn’t have much time between those games and the [Manchester] City match, particularly when you factor in the travel, but we wanted him to rest to conserve his energy and his form.

“I think he struggled a little in the game against Arsenal in terms of having his usual high standards and impact on the match.

“He has played the last few games in a double six role, which I don’t think is the best position for him, but I’m still so happy with Mason.

“In the cup final, perhaps he could have played with a little more composure but don’t forget, if it wasn’t for an incredible save from [Kasper] Schmeichel, then he would have scored an equalizer.

“It wasn’t to be, but Mason is always a dangerous player for us and we should be careful that we don’t over-expect from Mason.

“He is a key player for us in every match, he’s always so decisive and that will not change for the next three matches. He is absolutely key for us.”

Chelsea will next take on Leicester City again on Tuesday for a Premier League match.