Chelsea defender remains fully focussed despite Bayern Munich rumours

After back-to-back 1-0 defeats against Juventus and Manchester City, Chelsea got back to winning ways on Saturday as they beat Southampton 3-1 at Stamford Bridge. 

Thomas Tuchel’s side were left frustrated by the officiating in West London and looked to be heading for a draw with ten minutes remaining, but late goals from Timo Werner and Ben Chilwell secured victory.

That result, followed by Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Manchester City the following day, ensured that the Blues headed into the international break top of the Premier League.

With a fortnight’s break from domestic action, attention turns to internationals with a number of Chelsea players representing their respective countries.

However, one of the club’s German internationals has been talking about his future, and has insisted that he is fully focussed on the club.

Speaking to the media ahead of Germany’s match against Romania on Friday, Antonio Rudiger has explained that, while he is flattered by rumoured interest from Bayern Munich, he is not thinking too far ahead.

“Of course (Bayern’s interest) honours me and proves that I’ve been doing things right,” he said.

Rudiger is on international duty with fellow Blues teammate Kai Havertz

“But I don’t let myself be distracted,” he added.

“I have an obligation to my club to perform well. I have to prove myself every game and not let myself be distracted by rumours.

“I make my decisions for myself. They don’t depend on anyone. I feel good where I am.”

Speculation about Rudiger’s future has built in recent months after talks over a new deal with his current employers reportedly stalled.

As per The Mirror, Bayern are believed to be Juventus in holding an interest in the 28-year-old, who has emerged as one of Chelsea’s most valuable players this season.

Under previous boss Frank Lampard, Rudiger found himself out of favour and looked almost certain to depart the club, but since Tuchel arrived he has been a regular and Chelsea are reportedly now working hard to tie him down.