Sheffield United are told how to ensure Chelsea star Timo Werner's goal drought continues

Despite struggling form both form and confidence in recent months, Werner remains one of the most dangerous attacking talents in Europe following a £47.5m move from RB Leipzig last summer.

Ballack, who won six major trophies including the Premier League title during his time in west London, is convinced the 24-year-old will soon begin fulfilling his potential under new head coach Thomas Tuchel.

But, outlining the changes Werner must make to his own game in order to accelerate that process, Ballack inadvertently provided United with a game plan about how to handle him when Tuchel’s squad travels to South Yorkshire on Sunday.

“I believe it is very hard for him overall, as he is used to playing very differently at Leipzig,” Ballack said. “He had a lot more space in front of him. Chelsea is the kind of team that has a lot of possession, wanting to dominate the opponent. Maybe even more so under Tuchel.

“Maybe he has to work on his playing style a little bit, or try to get himself into better positions. As a striker, you are depending on your team mates to find you and if the goal drought ends, then he will be able to get back to his old form.”

Werner was on target 12 times for club and country earlier this term, with one of those efforts coming when United were beaten 4-1 by Chelsea in November. However, he has found the back of the bet only once in domestic competition since then; against Morecambe in the FA Cup.

“He used to have good phases with the national team, using his power and physical presence to break down the wing,” Ballack, speaking to Stats Perform News, continued. “So when his goal drought ends, then things will go better again.”

Chelsea could be without Brazilian centre-half Thiago Silva against United, after he picked up a knock during their win over Tottenham Hotspur last night.

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