Mauricio Pochettino, the Chelsea manager, is taking cautious steps to safeguard the £52 million summer acquisition, Christopher Nkunku, as he eyes a potential debut in the upcoming clash against Newcastle United on Wednesday (kick-off at 8 pm).
The Frenchman made the move to Stamford Bridge from RB Leipzig during the summer but has yet to grace the competitive field due to a knee injury suffered in pre-season, which required surgery.
Nkunku found a spot on the bench during Saturday afternoon’s 2-0 triumph against Sheffield United. However, Pochettino opted not to take any chances, citing a “one or two per-cent doubt” regarding the striker’s fitness. ⚽🚀 #Chelsea #NkunkuFitness
The Blues’ tactician downplayed the notion that the 26-year-old is set to kick off against the Magpies but did acknowledge the likelihood of a 20-minute cameo.
Pochettino remarked, “Christopher was in the mix last game and will continue to be involved. He’s training impressively. There’s a chance he might see some minutes on the pitch. I erred on the side of caution previously. How do I envision him today? I’d say he could handle about 20 minutes. My hesitation before the Sheffield United game was a mere one or two per cent, prompting me to avoid unnecessary risks.” ⚽💫 #Chelsea #NkunkuDebut
“I explained that to him as I need to be at 100 percent certainty. While it was beneficial for him to experience the warm-up with the team, why gamble when we’re leading 2-0? There was that one percent of uncertainty in my mind, questioning whether it was the opportune moment for him to step onto the field.” 🤔⚽ #PochettinoDecision #NkunkuEntryRisk
Chelsea and Newcastle have already crossed paths this season, with Eddie Howe’s squad securing a 4-1 victory at St James’ Park, courtesy of goals from Alexander Isak, Jamaal Lascelles, Joelinton, and Anthony Gordon.
The upcoming clash at Stamford Bridge holds the key to a spot in the Carabao Cup semi-finals, with the Magpies eager to clinch their first victory at the venue since 2012 when Papiss Cisse’s double secured a 2-1 win.
Pochettino emphasized the significance of the competition, stating, “For Newcastle as well, it is an important tournament, but from the outset of the season, it was one of our objectives. It’s going to be a crucial game; we aim to advance, but we recognize we’re up against a Champions League-caliber team. It’s going to be a formidable challenge.” ⚽🏆 #CarabaoCup #ChelseaVsNewcastle
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