Thomas Tuchel has provided an update on the Chelsea squad ahead of the club’s crucial clash with league leaders Manchester City this weekend.
The division’s top two meet in a huge Premier League meeting at the Etihad on Saturday lunchtime, with Chelsea in need of a positive result after falling 10 points behind tomorrow’s opponents following consecutive league draws.
Ahead of the clash, Tuchel has provided an update on the fitness issues within his squad and confirmed there are no new injury absentees, but revealed that Andres Christensen will miss the trip after testing positive for Covid-19.
“No news which is maybe is good news,” Tuchel told his pre-match press conference.
“Trevoh Chalobah will be out, Ben Chilwell will be out, Reece James is out. That’s from the injuries.
“We have one positive Covid test with Andreas Christensen so he is out for the game.”
Tuchel also discussed the club’s surprise decision to recall Kenedy from his loan spell at Flamengo, with the Brazilian returning to provide depth to the Blues’ options on the left-hand side.
The 25-year-old has not featured for Chelsea since the 2017/18 season, since having loan spells with Newcastle, Getafe, Granada and Flamengo.
Chelsea have also been linked with recalling Emerson Palmieri from a loan spell at Lyon as the club look to cover the extended absence of Chilwell.
“This will happen behind closed doors when we have something to announce about bringing players back.
“It’s not only about the need to bring players back but also about the possibility.
“Kenedy is back an I’m very happy. It is a huge opportunity for him to make his mark at this club.
“We will try to push and support him as good as we can.”
