Since Kai Havertz signed for Chelsea in the summer of 2020, the German has been used in various positions across the front line by firstly Frank Lampard and then Thomas Tuchel. However, there's one role in the attacking line-up that the 22-year-old has specialised in.
And that's the 'false nine' position. Havertz has been used there in recent weeks, jumping above Romelu Lukaku in the pecking order under Tuchel, and has scored six goals in his last eight matches across all competitions.
During his almost-two-year spell with the Blues, Havertz has played on the wing, in the number 10 role and as a false nine, but the latter of the three is where he seems best suited right now. Germany boss Hansi Flick, who Havertz is set to team up with after today's FA Cup clash with Middlesbrough, has hinted that his future could be through the centre for his national team.
READ MORE: Paul Merson agrees with Gary Neville on Kai Havertz amid Chelsea star's pledge
"I talked to Thomas Tuchel for a long time. He's said for a long time that he sees Kai there," Flick said. "He's been very successful in the last few games, scored goals, plays a bit more physically.
"When you talk about development speaks, Kai is a prime example. He can play almost all positions up front, on the wings, even behind the strikers."
The German was recently asked if he has found his best form and position, but admitted he was still unsure. He responded: "It's hard to say. I'm in a good run right now I think. I've played some good matches in the past, so maybe with my performances in the last few matches.
"But I think as a footballer, you're always hungry and want more. So I hope I can play with a lot more consistency, like in the last year for example, and I hope I can keep on going like this."
Tuchel, who is seemingly getting the best - or close to it - out of Havertz at the moment, was asked just over 12 months ago where he sees his countryman's long-term position being. The Chelsea boss replied: "He is a unique player.
"It is not so clear where he needs to settle, does he need to settle on one special position? Or is he kind of a hybrid player. Today, I would say he's in between a nine and a 10, something in between.
"He's very comfortable in the box, he's very comfortable in high positions, he's very good in offensive headers, he has good timing to arrive in the box, good finishing, good composure in the box, around the box, and very comfortable in high positions, so between nine and 10."
