Van der Vaart labels Werner a ‘blind horse’

Former Tottenham star Rafael van der Vaart has launched a bizarre attack on Timo Werner, describing the Chelsea forward as a “blind horse”.

Dutchman Van der Vaart was defending Hakim Ziyech, who was outstanding in the Netherlands for Ajax prior to his move to Stamford Bridge.

Both players have endured difficult first seasons at Chelsea, where Ziyech has struggled for fitness and form while Werner has impressed with his all-round performances but has found it tough in front of goal.

Van der Vaart is convinced Ziyech is worth a place in Blues boss Thomas Tuchel’s team and can deliver for Chelsea.

But he does not feel the same about Werner – and believes the Germany international’s shortcomings were evident even when he was still at RB Leipzig.

“I would always play Ziyech because he is the best,” he told Ziggo Sport, as reported by Sport Witness.

“Ziyech comes inside and also gives the cross, just like Mount. Giroud needs that.

“He (Werner) is super-fast, and that might be nice in an away game when you’re under pressure, but it’s just putting your head down and running around.

“Mount is a great footballer, who I do think needs to make a step up.

“Werner is really a blind horse. He has already proven that in Germany.”