As the international break approaches its conclusion, the anticipation is growing for Chelsea upcoming Premier League fixture against Newcastle. The Blues are to visit St James’ Park on Saturday. Thus, looking to build on the momentum gained from two thrilling encounters against Tottenham and Manchester City.
Mauricio Pochettino’s preparations have been somewhat challenging. Since, he had to manage without key players like Conor Gallagher and Cole Palmer, given their international commitments. However, there’s a positive note with the availability of captain Reece James, who opted not to join the England squad to focus on his recovery from injury.
Pochettino expressed optimism about the potential involvement of Conor Gallagher and Cole Palmer in Chelsea’s plans after the international break. However, he emphasized that their comebacks would be monitored day by day. Despite working together on Chelsea’s training pitches in preparation for the match against Man City, the duo was notably absent from pictures and videos of the club during the first week of the Premier League break.
Christopher Nkunku and Romeo Lavia were both present on Monday night. They were running together at Chelsea training site. Although they remained separate from the main group, the chance of their return against Newcastle may seem improbable. However, their progress throughout the week will undoubtedly be under close scrutiny.
Nkunku to return for Chelsea?
The likelihood of Christopher Nkunku’s potential return against Newcastle may not be surprising, especially considering Mauricio Pochettino’s recent conversation with him. Pochettino shared that in their last discussion, Nkunku expresses his desire to be ready for the match against Newcastle after the international break. Pochettino humorously recounted the exchange. Thus, noting that when he asked Nkunku about it, the player confidently claimed he was ready. Hence, prompting Pochettino to playfully call him a “liar.”
Although there is some uncertainty about the recovery rate of Nkunku and Lavia, Chelsea seems to have received a positive injury update in defense. Mauricio Pochettino already has a full backline of players who haven’t featured for their countries. Including Reece James, Thiago Silva, Benoit Badiashile, and Marc Cucurella who may make a return. Additionally, there are two more contenders for the team before Axel Disasi returns from international duty with France.
Levi Colwill and Malo Gusto withdrew from the England and France under 21 national teams. That is due to injury issues. Colwill, who missed Chelsea’s match against Manchester City because of a shoulder injury, and Gusto, who underwent a scan revealing a knee injury with France, were both active on Monday. Gusto demonstrated little hesitation, sliding across the floor in a drill. While Colwill was dribbling during a training session.
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