Mykhailo Mudryk is willing to play for Ukraine’s Under-21 team at this summer’s European Championships in order to impress Mauricio Pochettino.
Much was expected of the Ukrainian star when he arrived in January after Chelsea hijacked Arsenal’s move for the highly-rated winger.
After an impressive debut against Liverpool, however, Mudryk was able to show only brief glimpses of the potential that persuaded Chelsea to make a huge investment in him.
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Mudryk struggled to win the faith of Graham Potter before he was sacked and his interim replacement Frank Lampard.
The 22-year-old is yet to score his first Chelsea goal but is desperate to prove himself at Stamford Bridge and, according to the The Telegraph, is ready to play for his country this summer in order to build-up his fitness ahead of pre-season.
Lampard revealed a lack of intensity and dedication in training as a reason for Chelsea’s poor form towards the end of last campaign and although he did not mention Mudryk, the youngster is keen to hit the ground running under his new manager.
Mudryk has represented the senior Ukraine national team on 10 occasions and looked more like his old self last night in a 3-3 draw against Germany.
Chelsea are said to have backed his decision to represent Ukraine’s Under-21 team but it remains to be seen whether or not he will be picked for the tournament which takes place in Romania and Georgia.
Mudryk’s decision contrasts with the stance taken by Callum Hudson-Odoi who has chosen not to put himself forward for selection for England.
The 22-year-old winger has not been part of Gareth Southgate’s senior set-up since 2019 and although he is still eligible to play for Lee Carsley’s side he chose to take the summer off.