Thomas Tuchel, Manager of Chelsea, and Hakim Ziyech of Chelsea interact. (Photo by Alastair Grant - Pool/Getty Images)
Speaking to the press (h/t Football.london), ahead of the clash against Brentford, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has revealed the availability status of Antonio Rudiger and Hakim Ziyech.
The German tactician confirmed that Rudiger arrived at the club injured following his appearances for Germany during the international break. His situation does not appear to have improved and is now a major doubt to feature tomorrow.
“Toni Rudiger is injured, came back injured from the national team.”
The 28-year-old’s absence could be sorely felt given that he has been a rock at the back for the Blues in recent months. With his contract situation yet to be resolved, tomorrow could provide us with a brief glimpse of life sans Rudiger in the team.
Another name who now potentially joins Rudiger on the sidelines is Hakim Ziyech. The winger hasn’t really enjoyed the best of starts this season but remains a critical part of the Blues attack.
Tuchel has confirmed that the Moroccan has missed the club’s last two training sessions owing to a headache. Whether this rules him out of the tie tomorrow remains to be seen.
“We also have doubts with Hakim Ziyech who has missed the last couple of sessions with a headache.”
Christian Pulisic is still injured and will not feature on the night. With two of his wingers now potentially out, it remains to be seen how Tuchel will set up.
Thankfully it is not all doom and gloom. Tuchel went on to thankfully reveal that Romelu Lukaku is fine and will be involved. The Belgian was forced to withdraw from the national team squad ahead of
“Romelu is fine and will be involved tomorrow.”
Whether Lukaku will start the game or come off the bench remains to be seen. Having Timo Werner rediscover his goalscoring boots will certainly have given Tuchel more options.
It is in defence however that Chelsea will need to step up against Thomas Frank’s side. Thiago Silva will also arrive from Brazil tomorrow and looks set to miss out on the game. With Rudiger also possibly out, Brentford might look to take advantage of the situation.
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