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New Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel told he must deliver immediately with plenty still to play for this season

 (Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
(Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Thomas Tuchel has been told he must deliver immediately as he begins a new era at Chelsea tonight.

The German was yesterday officially appointed as Frank Lampard’s successor and held training at Cobham for the first time.

But there will be no honeymoon period for the former Paris Saint-Germain manager, who Roman Abramovich parachuted in specifically to save Chelsea’s season.

The Russian has no intention of writing the campaign off, despite Lampard being shown the door after a run of five defeats in eight Premier League games which has left the club languishing in 10th place. The Blues remain just six points off fourth-placed West Ham and are still in the Champions League and FA Cup.

Tuchel’s 18-month contract also underlines the speed with which he is expected to bring success. There is the option of an extension – but it is clear Abramovich expects an immediate return on his investment.

Chelsea chief Marina Granovskaia emphasised that when hailing Tuchel’s arrival.

She said: “It is never easy to change Head Coach in the middle of the season, but we are very happy to secure one of Europe’s best coaches in Thomas Tuchel. There is still much to play for and much to achieve, this season and beyond. We welcome Thomas to the club.”

Tuchel has been cleared to sit in the dugout against Wolves tonight after testing negative for coronavirus upon his arrival in the UK.

He will pick the team after running the rule over the players he has inherited during a first training session yesterday evening.

He is bringing his own backroom staff with him, with Chelsea due to confirm their appointments. Trusted assistant Arno Michels and coach Zsolt Low will be part of the new regime.

Tuchel said: “I would like to thank Chelsea FC for their confidence in me and my staff.

“We all have the greatest respect for Frank Lampard’s work and the legacy he created at Chelsea. At the same time, I cannot wait to meet my new team and compete in the most exciting league in football.

“I am grateful to now be part of the Chelsea family - it feels amazing.”

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