Chelsea defender marked his return with a win and many supporters were happy to see him back amid problems in their backline.
Antonio Rudiger is ready to take on a leadership role in a young Chelsea side and says he is fit for the winter run-in after a sustained spell out injured.
Chelsea won 2-1 against Lille on Tuesday to qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League, a game that saw Rudiger return and complete 90 minutes for the first time since April.
The 26-year-old is the most experienced of Chelsea’s four centre-backs and his return comes amid an indifferent run of form after the late November international break.
His return was particularly anticipated with Blues boss Frank Lampard having criticised his defence in recent weeks, and Rudiger is ready to help a young Chelsea side handle expectations.
“I see myself as helping them, as always,” Rudiger said at Stamford Bridge. “As I did in the other years in the team when I played with David Luiz or Gary Cahill … I am loud on the pitch. Especially with the young guys because you need to help them.
“There will be a period – that is normal because we are all human – that you will fall a bit, the performances will go down. But there especially you need to – and me as the most experienced in the back – need to help those young guys. I’m in for that.
“I hope soon [I will be at my best]! Of course, it makes a difference after a long time injured,” he added. “You need some games to come into but if the coach has the intention to let me play then I will never say no if the coach needs me. “I have to be honest with him as well if I feel all right. Of course, I would do it anytime.”