Sky Sports commentator Alan Smith thinks Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic could play a key role for the Blues against Manchester City this evening.

The American international has been in good form recently and Smith believes he could do a lot of damage if manager Thomas Tuchel chooses to start him in the FA Cup semi-final:

“Christian Pulisic, for one, seems to be peaking at a fantastic time. So far at least, it has not been the best of seasons for the US international but that does not matter, not when all the important bits are still to come.”

“His searing pace and direct style could easily cause problems to John Stones, by no means the quickest defender out there. Backed up by Mason Mount, the absolute definition of consistency, Pulisic is capable of creating a few waves.”

Pulisic has bagged three goals in his last three starts and his influence has begun to increase after a very slow start under the management of Tuchel.

At the pre-match press conference yesterday, the Blues boss praised the 22-year-old for his recent performances and it appears the player suffered no ill effects from his rough treatment against Porto.

When Pulisic is in full flight, he is very difficult to stop, as Porto found out as they fouled him on no less than 11 occasions. If he is 100% fit, he will be vital to Chelsea’s chances of winning today.