The Pride of London supply information and react as it is revealed that these seven Chelsea players remain injured but one star has returned to full training. Meanwhile Blues boss Mauricio Pochettino and Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou have praised one another.
There is hope of a Christopher Nkunku debut very soon. Yet, unfortunately, that won’t come against Spurs. Armando Broja’s knee keeps him out, too.
Five other Blues are unavailable for the next clash: Trevoh Chalobah, Ben Chilwell, Carney Chukwuemeka, Wesley Fofana and Romeo Lavia. However, Mykhailo Mudryk may be fit to make a quick comeback.
Full respect from Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur gaffers ahead of all-capital contest
Pochettino and Postecoglou have made complimentary comments about each other before the pair meet on the sideline as the Blues face Spurs. The situation is being highlighted by the media because of the contrasts in the two clubs’ current respective fortunes. While the north London team are doing wonderfully well under their new Australian head coach, the west Londoners are somewhat struggling with their Argentine chief.
Though, the latter requires far more time to stamp his authority on CFC and develop his own squad, let alone a starting lineup in reflection of his own footballing philosophies. The upcoming scenario at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is further heightened due to ‘Poch’s’ previous successful time with the Lilywhites.
Before playing the match, the managers were asked about their counterparts, as is typical. It is just as common for bosses to conduct some major back and forth flattery. The practice is as revealing as it is concealing and protective. Nevertheless, Pochettino hailed a ‘special’ return for himself as well as being ‘happy’ for ‘Big Ange’. Whilst Postecoglou said he had nothing but respect for his opposite number and his Spurs era. Although, the Tottenham man is a realist and confirmed there will be no guard of honour for Poch.