According to The Guardian, Chelsea will face off against Atletico Madrid in the UCL, who will be playing without Kieran Trippier at right-back unless they appeal to the court of arbitration of sport.
The 30-year-old was hit with a 10-week suspension last month after advising a friend to bet on his move from Tottenham to Atletico Madrid.
This was a breach of the Football Associating betting rules. With FIFA now dismissing Atlético Madrid’s appeal, he looks set to sit out for the original duration of the ban.
However, an oversight by the FA could see the player eligible to play. This after they failed in their attempt to revise the dates of Trippier’s ban. This means he can continue playing provided Atletico appeal to the court of arbitration of sport.
The FA had wanted to revise the effective dates of the ban, which ends on 28 February. However, their own independent regulatory commission has dismissed the application.
Trippier was found guilty of four of the seven charges against him. He missed two La Liga games due to the ban but returned to action in last Tuesday’s 2-0 win over Sevilla. He made an assist on the night as Diego Simeone’s side continue to lead La Liga.
The Englishman is a key component of the Atletico system. He has started when fit and gives the Spaniards an explosive outlet down their right.
Trippier has so far made 20 appearances this season, making five assists. Also an adept set-piece taker, the Englishman is a key cog in the Simeone machine.
Irrespective of whether Trippier makes it or not, Atletico will present a formidable challenge to Chelsea. The tie will represent a real test of Frank Lampard’s managerial abilities.
The first leg will be played in Madrid on 23 February with the return leg penned in for 17th March.
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