When the summer transfer window was still open, my view was that I would be very surprised if Antonio Rudiger were to remain as part of the squad.
To me, it seemed odds-on that the 27-year-old German international would be, after losing his place in the starting XI, headed for the exit.
But it never happened and, for now, Rudiger remains part of the first-team squad.
However, speculation relating to the centre-backs’ future continues to generate column inches in the media.
Not long after the window had slammed shut, we picked up on the following – chelsea-defender-set-for-january-move-suggests-international-boss.
An indication that I found quite feasible.
However, according to The Athletic, Rudiger, currently away on international duty, has no intention of sitting back and waiting to see what the January transfer window may bring.
Apparently, and to his credit, Rudiger is prepared to knuckle down and win back his place in the heart of the Chelsea defence most likely alongside the recently recruited Thiago Silva.
Whether that will happen remains to be seen but following the comments left on this site, I am aware that the German does have his fans among the Chelsea support.
Can you see a long-term future for Antonio Rudiger at Stamford Bridge?
Please feel free to have your say in the comment facility beneath this article.
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