Romelu Lukaku’s arrival from Inter Milan to Chelsea carries with it a lot of expectations.
Last season’s Serie A MVP has been viewed by many as the solution to Blues number 9 woes.
Despite getting off to a flyer in his return to Blue, a string of haphazard performances and an injury incurred against Zenit saw doubts being raised at Lukaku’s credentials.
After recovering from the injury, the 28-year-old unfortunately contracted COVID 19, due to which his features as a sub in recent outings failed to be impactful.
His recent appearance against Aston Villa however is sure to change the narrative.
Coming on at halftime the Belgian brought about a much-needed spark for the Blues. And the game acted as a showcase of Lukaku’s strengths.
His aerial abilities along with his linkup play were in perfect display throughout the second half, with this run encapsulating his pace and strength.
Latching onto a flicked pass from Callum Hudson Odoi, the Belgian bested Matt Targett in a footrace, proving too hot to handle Lukaku sent Targett crashing onto the turf.
With a neat touch, the Belgian created a great angle for a strike past Emi Martinez in goal, unfortunately, the run didn’t end with the goal it deserved as Ezri Konsa fouled Lukaku at the final moment.
Through his thundering run, Lukaku managed to win a crucial penalty for his side, one which was eventually converted by Jorginho ensuring the 3 points and concluding a man of the match performance by the number 9.
Rom just burns Targett and Konsa has no choice but to bring him down. he’s so dangerous in full flow. #CFCpic.twitter.com/vwC0mn0iz5
Aside from appraisal from fans, Lukaku’s impact off the bench received praise from teammate Ben Chilwell. The left-back, who is on the sidelines at the moment due to injury, took to Instagram applauding Lukaku’s performance as he wrote – “They can’t stop you bro! Cream always rises.”
