Joe Cole was left blown away by the performance from Kai Havertz during an epic Chelsea win on Tuesday night.
The Blues produced one of their memorable European nights at Stamford Bridge to reach this season’s Champions League quarter-finals.
Graham Potter’s side trailed 1-0 on aggregate from the first leg, but a thrilling 2-0 home win this evening has given everyone a massive lift during a challenging season.
First of all, Raheem Sterling levelled the tie with a thunderous half-volley just before half time.
Chelsea’s second goal of the night, which put them through in the last 16 tie, came in huge drama.
Havertz thought he had blown a golden opportunity when he missed his spot-kick early in the second period. However, an encroachment allowed him to retake the penalty, which he this time did convert under immense pressure.
BT Sport pundit Cole singled out Havertz immediately after full time.
“Kai Havertz was coming into the game. Owen is right, he was absolutely outstanding tonight,” Cole told BT Sport 1 (10:15pm, 7 March).
The 23-year-old isn’t always the most popular figure within the fanbase due to a lack of goals, but he’s definitely one for the big occasion.
His seventh goal of the season has breathed new life into Chelsea’s campaign.
On top of his goal, Havertz was fantastic all evening for the Blues.
He was heavily involved in the build up to Sterling’s opener by linking up play, something he did throughout the 90 minutes.
Potter has shown a lot of faith in the German attacker as a nailed-on starter in his team, so it’s great to see that pay off on a big European night.
Next, Chelsea can sit back and enjoy watching the rest of the Champions League ties in the last 16.