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Football London
Football London
Sport
Daniel Orme

Louis van Gaal hits out at 'defensive' Chelsea claim and makes Thomas Tuchel statement

Former Manchester United head coach Louis van Gaal has congratulated Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel for finding an effective playing style for the Blues.

Since arriving at Stamford Bridge in January, the German has preferred a strict system, implementing five across the defensive line.

Despite having led the Blues to the Champions League title, as well as the UEFA Super Cup, there has still been criticism sent Tuchel’s way for Chelsea not scoring enough goals under the German - 52 in 35 matches in all competitions to be exact.

However, Van Gaal has leapt to the defence of the former Paris Saint-Germain man, suggesting that any such argument is unfounded.

When asked if he wants to replicate Chelsea’s 'defensive' style for the Netherlands, the Dutchman said: "You have 0 knowledge about football. You are a journalist who wants to share his vision, but you don't have a vision. With 532 you can attack very well. And hats off for [Thomas] Tuchel for showing it."

So far, Tuchel’s current system has led Chelsea to an unbeaten start to the current campaign in all competitions.

The Blues sit fourth in the current Premier League table having won two out of their opening three league games, whilst also managing to claim a point at Anfield against Liverpool last time out despite going down to 10 men before half-time.

Tuchel is likely to set his team up in the same way this weekend for the visit of Aston Villa but he could be without a few key players for the game.

Kai Havertz, Romelu Lukaku, N’Golo Kante are all doubts, whilst Reece James will also be missing following his red card against Liverpool.

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