Tuchel lauds Jorginho reaction to Italy missing out on Qatar World Cup

Jorginho's reaction to Italy's blunder to qualify for the World Cup has been commended by

manager

Thomas Tuchel

. 

After their UEFA play-off defeat to North Macedonia last month, the Blues playmaker saw his country miss out on Qatar 2022, bringing the Azzurri back to earth after last year's Euro 2020 glory. 

It was a devastating setback for Jorginho, who had been a star performer for club and country during the previous year and a half, and he was freed from international duty early to return to Stamford Bridge.

Tuchel, speaking ahead of his side's

match against Brentford this weekend, said he had not discussed the situation with the player in detail, but praised his tenacity. 

"To be very honest, I did not speak a lot with him about that," Tuchel told a media conference. "What could I say to make his pain go away? Nothing.

"If I am the 200th person to tell him to put his head up high... Like always, with the players, it is our job to create an environment and atmosphere where the players feel welcome, feel safe.

"Of course this happens in sport, and it feels horrible for him personally. But here is a safe place for him. He was very strong in training, with a good response.

"He came in one day earlier than he needed to be. That's why I had the feeling that he wanted to be back in this environment, because it is a positive environment."

Jorginho played a key role in Chelsea's

title last season, as well as Italy's Euro 2020 victory over England in July. 

However, two missed penalties against Switzerland in World Cup qualifications proved crucial in the Azzurri failing to clinch their group and being forced to compete in the play-offs. 

The Brazilian-born playmaker will now try to help Chelsea finish the season on a good note, with the club still in contention for the FA Cup and Champions League.

Follow 

for the