Toni Rudiger proud of coming through tough times to enjoy Chelsea trophy success

Toni Rudiger has revealed how digging into his true character helped turn testing times into a trophy-laden 12 months at Chelsea.

The Germany defender explained why sticking to his principles might just be his proudest personal achievement amid the Blues lifting the Champions League, European Super Cup and Club World Cup.

At times a peripheral figure in Frank Lampard’s tenure, Rudiger has been a centre-back reborn under Thomas Tuchel, boasting fearsome tactical acumen and blockbusting drives out of defence.

And now the 28-year-old has lifted the lid on the secret to Blues boss Tuchel’s success as good, old-fashioned honesty.

Chelsea will face Liverpool in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final with Rudiger determined the Blues can deliver their big-game know-how once again.

“I’m proud of my whole career, but what’s happened in the last year, it’s amazing,” Rudiger told the PA news agency.

“As a group we have achieved a lot, and had a great time. There have also been some downs, which is normal, I think. Personally, of course I’m enjoying this moment.

“It’s one thing though when you feel good, when everything is well set up and the team is performing well.

“But I think I showed who I am when times were difficult, and this is what counts more to me.

“Because in good times everyone shines, everyone is good, so there’s no need to say anything.

“But the real character of a person is what you see when he is down, and this is what I proved, to myself.

“It’s not about proving to someone else, just proving to myself.

“I think a career’s all about chapters. When you’re young it’s a different chapter.

“But this chapter, yeah, it’s some of the best football I’m playing.

“I think Thomas’ secret is that he’s just honest. He’s just honest with how