Chelsea ‘want Fofana as Rudiger agrees to Real Madrid transfer’, new owner has to stay for TEN YEARS

Good morning Chelsea fans

Thomas Tuchel welcomed Chelsea’s “patience” in yesterday’s last-minute triumph but confirmed Antonio Rudiger’s has run out.

Late substitute Christian Pulisic sunk West Ham 1-0 – shortly after Jorginho’s horrific penalty error – ending a run of three straight home defeats.

Hammers defender Craig Dawson saw red when he conceded that pathetic penalty by fouling another impressive substitute, Romelu Lukaku.

Overall, however, the defiant Hammers were unlucky as they had to rest six captains, including Declan Rice.

Blues boss Tuchel said: “They defend around their box with eight to nine players and it’s difficult to find space to accelerate.

“The first half was a bit stuck but I think that was due to some uncertainty with the latest results at home. We grew into it, never lost patience.”

And when explaining why Chelsea were cautious, he added: “Nor was it the moment to take any chances after our recent results.”

Meanwhile, Tuchel admitted Rüdiger had told him in a “private conversation” that the centre-back would be leaving this summer.

The Blues are unable to offer new contracts as government sanctions on outgoing owner Roman Abramovich have hit hard.

And Manchester United target Rudiger has finally revealed what everyone has been expecting – that he will be the first exit of a big name.

Tuchel said: “We gave everything – me and the club.

“Without the sanctions we could at least keep fighting, but our hands are tied.”