The Thomas Tuchel era has begun in near perfect terms, as a 1-0 win over Tottenham in north London made it two wins from three games with three clean sheets.

The German took over from Frank Lampard last month after a string of poor results from the club’s all-time top goalscorer, and he’s come in and not only steadied the ship but got them sailing in the right direction.

The win over Spurs came from the penalty spot, with Jorginho back on spot kick duties and smashing the ball past Hugo Lloris in the first half.

But it was the manner of the performance from the Blues that earned them plaudits, as they largely dominated the ball and looked very comfortable throughout the game.

Tuchel has adopted a three at the back system since taking over, using Cesar Azpilicueta as a third centre back alongside Thiago Silva and Antonio Rudiger. Callum Hudson-Odoi has been fielded as a make-shift wing back in the previous two games, although Reece James came into the team against Spurs with Hudson-Odoi moving into the front three.

With Marcos Alonso brought back into the fold after being isolated under Lampard, Tuchel’s wing backs push so far forward that they were often in line with the front three to essentially create a front five.

The two central midfielders sit relatively deep to prevent the counter attack and keep the ball ticking along and the front five keep the opposition defenders fenced in and occupied at all times.

It allows the team to get numbers in the box, all making runs in behind or coming short offering up options and looking dangerous.

TUCHELS INTENTIONS:

Intentions is a real thing in football & Tuchels intentions are clear as day.

(Pic) The 2 highest players are fbs. Spurs pegged back & cant get out. Bully tactics & Jose hasnt got a clue how to deal with it.

We gotta keep an eye on Tuchel. Crafty coach. pic.twitter.com/j2OIY3u4B2

— Pundit Jay (@pundit_jay) February 4, 2021

It was an impressive spectacle from a neutral point of view, although they were lacking that final click in the final third to create more clear cut chances. With that said, more time to train and develop under Tuchel will only bring improvements in that sense.

The technical quality of the Chelsea squad was on full show throughout the game, with almost 60% possession and fans will be delighted to see the attacking intent in the side is being matched by a great coach and a genuine plan.

Some of the runs made by attackers were clearly deliberate and almost rehearsed, which makes Chelsea a frightening prospect once everything eventually clicks.

Chelsea are back, while Spurs continue to melt away into mediocrity under Jose Mourinho.