Chelsea boss Graham Potter has issued precautions over two of his sidelined stars, with a boost also in store for goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.
In wake of Potter’s pre-match press conference ahead of the Blues’ UEFA Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb tonight, the likes of Mateo Kovacic and Kalidou Koulibaly are members who are touch-and-go.
Kovacic, Chelsea’s most recent Champions League scorer, has been struggling with a calf injury in recent games and did not train at Cobham yesterday.
On the injury status of the midfielder, Potter said: “Kovacic was just precautionary with his calf.
“He’s got a chance for the game tomorrow, we will make a decision later on.”
On the subject of Koulibaly, who has been absent since the draw at Brentford a fortnight ago, the Chelsea boss said: “He trained today and was fine.
“Providing there’s no reaction he’s available and will be in the squad tomorrow.”
On the subject of Kepa, he “won’t be available for the game” according to the boss who went on to say: “He has a slight issue with his plantar fascia.”
There is hope that he will regain fitness in time for the next game or so though, with Potter saying: “We’re looking at days, but certainly not for the game tomorrow.”
Injury list
Reece James, Wesley Fofana and N’Golo Kante all remain out with long-term setbacks, with former two continuing their rehabilitation programme in Dubai this week, as per Chelsea’s official website.
Necessary precaution
All three recent injury omissions represent a blow to the side, but it is much better to air on the side of caution.
With Chelsea’s having already escaped Group E by topping the group, they are comfortable and can afford to rotate.
Potter should have his stars fully fit in time for the next game against Arsenal and will be counting on the entirety of his squad in this congested fixture period ahead of the World Cup.
