Christopher Nkunku’s Return from 3 Month Long Injury Causes Line-Up Conundrum For Chelsea Ahead of Important Clash Against Newcastle
After their tantalising 4-4 draw against Manchester City prior to the international break, Chelsea fans are in even higher spirits today as Christopher Nkunku is returning from injury, with the possibility of even featuring in their Saturday encounter against Newcastle United. Before we get into the heat of things, this match against Newcastle could prove decisive in Chelsea’s season as the Blues have yet to drop maximum points against the top sides while Newcastle have struggled. With Chelsea humorously facing a side with more injury concerns than them, this could be the perfect opportunity for the Blues to move closer to the standings they projected at the start of the season.
Christopher Nkunku and Roméo Lavia Expected to Feature in Saturday’s Match
As mentioned above, Christopher Nkunku has returned from injury and is in a race against the clock to prove himself fit for Mauricio Pochettino and his staff. In the latest news highlighted by The Standard, Nkunku has four training sessions to demonstrate his fitness levels to the manager and the medical team. However, even if he pass the test, he would likely start on the bench as a precaution.
Undoubtedly, Christopher Nkunku was the shining light for Chelsea in their pre-season build-up as the £52 million summer signing from RB Leipzig scored three goals in their friendlies. Furthermore, Mauricio Pochettino lamented the loss of his central striker as he had built his tactics and squad around the Frenchmen ahead of their Premier League season.
Unfortunately, injuries stuck at the wrong time for Nkunku and Chelsea, but it could prove a sign of hope if Nkunku performs in this period of lesser strength of opponents. In other news, Roméo Lavia is also returning from injury and has joined Nkunku in the battle against time to prove his fitness to the team. Levi Colwill and Malo Gusto, who did not feature in the international break due to injuries, also provided positive news as they were active in training at Cobham. As for Reece James, he earned himself a good moment of recovery after opting out of joining England to rebuild his strength and fitness.
Where Does Christopher Nkunku Slot in Chelsea’s Attack?
Despite the results, Chelsea has been fluent in attack this season with a rejuvenated Raheem Sterling surging down the wings, with signings Jackson and Palmer also contributing decisive moments for the Blues. However, it seemed insufficient as Chelsea have struggled for consistency as they failed to close up matches against supposedly weaker teams while fairing decently against top-tier opponents.
In addition, the Blues average the worst expected goals per game of any other team this season. Fortunately, with the return of last season’s Bundesliga top scorer, Christopher Nkunku, Chelsea could hopefully reduce this stat as the Frenchman used to be the leading frontman of his team.
Hypothetically, if Nkunku is fit to start, where would he play? While Poch has experimented with a two-striker formation in pre-season, it would be a drastic change from the formation he has run this season. In addition, he would likely have to replace a midfielder in his central trio of Enzo, Caicedo and Gallagher to make space for Nkunku. While most fans would recommend switching Nkunku for Gallagher, the Englishman is the club’s captain, and it would prove quite a headache for Poch in the upcoming few weeks.
Newcastle to Miss Key Figure in Saturday’s Match with Premier League Transfer Rules
On the other hand, Newcastle, who is suffering a barrage of injuries themselves, received bad news from the Premier League as their summer loanee Lewis Hall is not eligible to face his parent club. According to the Premier League official rules, during the period of the temporary transfer of his contract registration, a player shall not play against the parent club.
Therefore, with the absence of Lewis Hall, who has played well thus far in a Magpies shirt, Eddie Howe has few players to draw from as Sven Botman, Harvey Barnes, Matt Targett, Dan Burn, Elliot Anderson, Jacob Murphy, and Callum Wilson are already out to injury.
Not to mention the suspension of Sandro Tonali, Miguel Almiron, and Fabian Schar are also doubts heading to this match as they suffered minor setbacks during their international duty.
Where to Catch the Latest News and Highlights From the World of Football?
Thus, the squad situation for both teams will be a much-discussed topic heading to this Saturday’s encounter. Who will prevail in this decisive match? Can Newcastle beat a fellow Champions League contender, or will Chelsea continue their good streak against top-tier opposition? Let us know in the comments below.
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