BREAKING: Willian & Rudiger ‘in contention’ for Leicester clash
Frank Lampard has hinted he expects Willian and Antonio Rudiger to be fit enough to at least make the bench for the Blues’ first home game of the season against Leicester.
Both players were included in the match squad for the Super Cup match against Liverpool, but neither of them played. They are unlikely to be rushed straight into the starting XI, however important they are for the team.
When asked about the duo Lampard sounded more optimistic about the Brazilian winger who might have a chance to sport his new No.10 shirt.
“Rudiger is training. Whether he’s completely match-fit is a different thing, for the same reasons as Callum [Hudson-Odoi], a bit of conditioning [needed],” Lampard said at the press conference.
“Willian is probably closer. They are both in contention for the weekend.”
Willian has been sidelined since the Copa America semifinal. That day, the Brazilian winger suffered a muscle injury and was later given extra rest by Lampard.
As for Rudiger, the 26-year-old picked up a serious knee injury at the end of April. The centre-back underwent successful surgery on his meniscus and has been in the process of rehabilitation ever since.