Chelsea left-back Ian Maatsen is open to joining Borussia Dortmund. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed Ben Chilwell is currently away from the club’s training ground as he recovers from a troublesome hamstring injury.
Speaking ahead of the Blues’ Carabao Cup tie with Blackburn, Pochettino remained coy on an exact return date for the left-back in an interview covered by Football. London.
“I can not tell you[when he will be back], It is difficult to know. He is away from the training ground now and we will wait for him to come back to see the situation. Hopefully he can recover as soon as possible.
Pochettino explained Ben Chilwell had been granted permission to change scenery as part of his recuperation.
“It was the plan for the club to change the scenario for him because it is a period he needs to be out, When there is a long period of recovery sometimes you want to change the scenery for the player, to provide because to spend 12 hours here every day… it is a fantastic training ground but some times the player needs to change the atmosphere to recover in a good way.
Getting away from the training ground rut can aid recovery both physically and mentally during long-term absences. Chilwell will hopefully return rejuvenated from his break in the United States, ready to aid Chelsea’s push up the table. The 26-year-old England international suffered the injury in Chelsea’s Carabao Cup win over Brighton & Hove Albion and was subsequently ruled out for months.
In the meantime, Pochettino is focusing on players available for today’s clash with Blackburn. When asked if the rotation was likely with Tottenham looming, Pochettino replied that he is still not thinking about it as his squad still has time to recover until Monday for the Premier League fixture.
Pochettino understands the importance of a deep cup run this season as he reshapes Chelsea’s squad. With Chelsea currently performing well in the Cabarao Cup, Pochettino will want his team to maintain their good form
“I think a competition like the Carabao Cup or FA Cup is really important for us. Tomorrow we are going to try and play with our best team.”
Including Chilwell, the Blues are currently missing 3 first-team defenders. With Chilwell still sidelined for now, Pochettino and Chelsea must strive to progress without their first-choice left-back.
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