Head coach Thomas Tuchel has challenged Timo Werner to 'take and defend' his place in the Chelsea starting lineup next season.

Earlier this week, Werner suggested that a departure from Stamford Bridge was a possibility as he looked to secure regular game time ahead of the World Cup.

As quoted by the Daily Mail, the Germany international said: "I could be happy everywhere. I think of course the manager always has different ideas, different thoughts and what you need in different games, I think in many games I was not in his thoughts so I try to change that.

"It is clear I want to play more and I should play more to first be in good shape for the World Cup and also, to have a chance to play at the World Cup.

The comments came on the back of making just 15 starts and six substitute appearances in the Premier League during 2021-22, the versatile forward scoring four times.

However, Tuchel has revealed that he was left "surprised" by the comments made by the 26-year-old, who he feels should be focused on trying to "show quality" in order to retain a regular spot in the starting lineup.

Speaking to reporters after Chelsea's friendly with Charlotte on Wednesday night, Tuchel said: "I'm surprised, I would be very happy as a young guy having a contract at Chelsea Football Club. I would be one of the happiest people on the planet.

"He needs to get his game time. Show quality, take your place and defend your place. I would be one of the happiest people on the planet having a contract with Chelsea. If he said this, I do not understand."

In recent weeks, it has been suggested that Werner could be allowed to depart Stamford Bridge for the right price, the player having previously been linked with a switch to Juventus.

Werner had been due to feature against Charlotte but he was one of a number of Chelsea players - the others being Kepa Arrizabalaga, Cesar Azpilicueta and Ross Barkley - who missed out through injury.

Commenting on Werner's issue, Tuchel added that it was down to "hamstring problems and we didn't take the risk" ahead of the upcoming friendlies and start to the new season.

In the absence of Werner, who scored during Chelsea's win over Club America last weekend, the West Londoners succumbed to a penalty-shootout defeat to the MLS side after a 1-1 draw.

Chelsea are next in action when they take on Arsenal in Florida on Saturday night.