Chelsea will be without French forward Christopher Nkunku for an “extended period” after having surgery on a knee injury sustained in pre-season.
Nkunku was forced off 20 minutes into Chelsea’s friendly with Borussia Dortmund after feeling something in his knee.
An official statement on Chelsea’s website said “Nkunku has sustained a knee injury which will rule the forward out for an extended period.
“The 25-year-old has undergone an operation and will now begin a rehabilitation programme with the club’s medical department.”
It’s a big blow for Chelsea and Nkunku, with the Frenchman having only officially joined the Blues in July.
After the 1-1 draw with Dortmund, Pochettino said his team selection was based on the players he plans to use against Liverpool.
So, what are head coach Mauricio Pochettino’s other options instead of Nkunku?
NONI MADUEKE
Noni Madueke was a bright spark in an underperforming Chelsea side at the end of last season.
He hasn’t featured since winning the European Under-21 Championships due to tightness in his hamstring.
After the pre-season game with Newcastle, Pochettino said Madueke’s injury was “not a big thing.” He is back in training and is expected to be fit for Liverpool.
MYKHAILO MUDRYK
Mykhailo Mudryk replaced Nkunku in the Dortmund game, but whether that was an indication that he will start against Liverpool, only time will tell.
He is a player who has had a difficult start to his Chelsea career since arriving from Shakhtar Donestk in January.
The Ukrainian scored against Brighton after good link-up play with striker Jackson, which wouldn’t have gone unnoticed by Pochettino.
Mudryk also made his debut against Liverpool in a 0-0 at Anfield where his pace and close control were on show.
IAN MAATSEN
Ian Maatsen is another player who has impressed in an advanced position. The 21-year-old is a rumoured target for both Burnley and West Ham among others but could now play an important role with the absence of Nkunku.
Pochettino has previously said that Maatsen is in his plans. The Argentinian has also praised the player’s attitude, commitment and understanding of the game, as well as his versatility to play at left back and in advanced positions.
Two goals and an assist in pre-season has helped his case for remaining at Stamford Bridge and fighting for his place.
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