Christian Pulisic admitted to an element of “relief” in his celebrations after netting not just his first goal for Chelsea but his first career hat-trick too.
The former Borussia Dortmund attacker carries the weight of a nation on his shoulders on the international stage, but domestically he has taken time to hit his stride in the Premier League.
Rotation from Frank Lampard, the return to fitness of Callum Hudson-Odoi and a natural period of adaptation have all meant Pulisic has had to bide his time, to an extent, but three goals against Burnley in a 4-2 win have pushed his claims for more game time.
Speaking to reporters, the United States talisman acknowledged that he felt some pressure lift when he showed he could contribute at this level.
“Of course there is a sense of relief — you could see that in my emotions after the first goal,” he said.
“That relief of getting my first goal and being able to help my team at this level. It’s really good for me.”
Lampard has spoken recently about why Pulisic has been in and out of the side, but has also communicated to his player that he has his manager’s complete backing.
“He [Lampard] believes in me and he’s told me that. You have to keep working hard in training and earn your spot, that’s how it is at the highest level. I’m going to continue to do so. This is hopefully just the start.
“I didn’t come here expecting everything to be easy and have an easy route and start every game.
“It’s not always that easy. So I came in had to work for my spot just like everyone does. I’m proud of the journey I’ve had so far.”
