Christopher Nkunku drops big Chelsea team selection hint ahead of Sheffield United clash
Christopher Nkunku has hinted he could make his competitive Chelsea debut against Sheffield United in the Premier League this weekend. The Frenchman has not featured for the Blues since pre-season after sustaining a knee injury back in August.
Mauricio Pochettino has remained tight-lipped over a potential return date for Nkunku as he continues to build up his fitness and sharpness levels after returning to training. The France international has been involved in first team training for the past two weeks, but did not feature in the matchday squads against Brighton, Manchester United and Everton.
Nkunku’s return could have a huge impact on Chelsea’s attack and help solve their goalscoring issues – consequently easing the pressure facing Pochettino at present. Ahead of the disappointing defeat against Everton last weekend, Pochettino offered a fresh update on Nkunku and Romeo Lavia as the Chelsea duo build up their sharpness ahead of making their official Chelsea debuts.
When asked if either player will feature against the Blades, the Blues’ manager said: “We’ll see. The last step is always the most difficult thing. They are so close, but at the same time we had a small delay, but we hope that they can be involved soon.”
Nkunku has once again been involved in training this week and Pochettino is rumoured to have already made a decision regarding the 26-year-old’s involvement this weekend. Now, the French forward has hinted he will be involved in the squad on Saturday afternoon against Sheffield United after posting pictures from training on his Instagram story.
Chelsea fans are eagerly anticipating Nkunku’s competitive debut – especially after club captain Reece James suffered yet another injury setback last weekend. The England international suffered a hamstring injury and is not expected to return to action for ‘a few months’.