Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger has confirmed that Maurizio Sarri has opted for a more conservative approach against high profile opponents.

The German international says the 6-0 thrashing by Manchester City instigated a sea change in the Blues manager’s approach in subsequent matches against City in the Carabao Cup final, and the 2-0 win over Spurs:

“I think everyone has adapted to new things — also the coach. You saw the way we played against Tottenham and Manchester City [in the past week]? It was different to the way we played in the first three months…”

“Of course. He [Sarri] learned from that game against City. There we went high, we went to press, we wanted to win the ball and everyone knows what happened. We can play both [styles]. But it is always good to find the golden middle.”

Sarri’s change to a more defensive style is surprising considering his previous comments in press conferences where he has been adamant he won’t change his approach.

The City defeat looks to have softened his stance, and his willingness to adapt may have just kept him in his job.

Chelsea still have to play Liverpool and Manchester United away from Stamford Bridge, but the other eight league fixtures are pretty favourable during the run-in.

They will face the likes of Wolves, Brighton, West Ham, Burnley and Watford at home, while away trips to Cardiff, Everton and Leicester should give them a good chance of clinching a top-four spot.