Mauricio Pochettino has disclosed that Christopher Nkunku, recovering from a knee injury, is targeting a comeback following the November international break. Originally expected to miss the rest of the year after undergoing surgery due to a pre-season friendly incident against Borussia Dortmund, positive updates suggest an earlier return. Chelsea aims to include Nkunku in the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Newcastle United on December 20, post the upcoming break.
Pochettino confirmed Nkunku’s goal is to return against Newcastle in the Premier League clash on November 25, expressing, “We had some conversation, and he said to me, ‘Coach, I want to be ready for after the international break, Newcastle.'” Despite playful banter about readiness, Pochettino praised Nkunku’s professional recovery and noted, “It is close, and he is doing really well.
We are so happy with him, the way he is recovering; he is very professional.”
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The good news kept on coming for Chelsea fans as Pochettino revealed another summer signing, £58m midfielder Romeo Lavia, is back working outside ahead of an imminent return to team training.
“Romeo Lavia is also close,” Pochettino said after his update on Nkunku. “They trained today on the pitch.
“Hope that next week [Lavia and Nkunku] will be involved with the team and we’ll see after. Day by day, see when it is possible to play with the team.”
90min understands Lavia, who has battled two injuries since his summer switch from Southampton, is likely to start picking up minutes in December.