Pochettino says Chelsea are working to find ‘solution’ to replace player he feels ‘sorry for’

Mauricio Pochettino confirms Chelsea will look at short or long-term options in the market to replace the injured Christopher Nkunku

Speaking to the media ahead of the Premier League opener against Liverpool, Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed that the club will look at short or long-term options in the transfer market to replace the injured Christopher Nkunku.

A few days ago, it was revealed that Nkunku will miss action until December after picking up a knee injury during a pre-season game against Borussia Dortmund in the USA.

The Frenchman, who only arrived at the club this summer, will basically have to wait for his Chelsea debut till Christmas. He was in great in the pre-season by scoring three goals in four games and a bit.

Here’s what Pochettino said when asked about Nkunku’s injury and finding a possible replacement in the market (h/t Evening Standard):

“We feel very sorry about him [Nkunku]. He was doing well, he was very important player for us. I think the quality is there, one of the best offensive players that can play in different positions that always is a big issue for us.

“We are working in the market also, we are going to miss one player like this. The club is working, trying to find a solution, maybe short term, medium and long term to add the right profile for the team to perform for now.”

Missing Nkunku for that length of time could have a domino effect because the 25-year-old is a versatile forward who could operate as a number 10, as a false nine and as a left winger.

The best thing about him is that he is comfortable and does well in each of those positions. So, either Chelsea find someone who can mirror his flexibility, or sign someone to nail down one position.

For example, the Blues have signed Nicolas Jackson to cover up the number nine slot. They could do with another player there because the pressure on Jackson to score all the goals could be too much. Had Nkunku been there, they would have shared the load.

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Let’s where Chelsea go from here. They are in the market for midfielders too as we know. The focus is on tying up the Moises Caicedo deal as early as possible. Still, about three weeks to go. A lot can happen!