Leeds United handed boost as Mauricio Pochettino reveals injury and makes 'tired' Chelsea admission

Chelsea appear likely to be without Christopher Nkunku for their FA Cup clash with Leeds United.
Tom Coates
By Tom Coates
Published 27th Feb 2024, 13:27 BST

The Blues are heading into the fifth-round tie on the back of Carabao Cup heartbreak, having lost 1-0 to Liverpool in the final at the weekend. They will be heavily favoured to see off the Whites but will be coming up against an in-form side.

However, it appears likely they will have to do without Nkunku, who could face a month on the sidelines.

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Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino said: "We heard yesterday that Nkunku was injured. We don't know when he got injured. We need to see. At the moment, it's three or four weeks maybe out. We hope no more."

Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino is preparing his side to host Leeds United. Image: DARREN STAPLES/AFP via Getty ImagesChelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino is preparing his side to host Leeds United. Image: DARREN STAPLES/AFP via Getty Images
Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino is preparing his side to host Leeds United. Image: DARREN STAPLES/AFP via Getty Images

In another potential boost for Leeds, Pochettino admitted he has a tired squad following the Carabao Cup final, which was only settled after extra time.

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He said: “They are all tired. Always when you lose a final, it's not easy to recover. But I am so happy because they are really focused, they move forward.

"Disappointed because we cannot win the Carabao Cup but we need to move on and compete tomorrow. I'm happy because they react well and they are in a very positive moment.”

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An old rivalry will be renewed when Chelsea and Leeds meet and Pochettino is anticipating a tough test, despite the Whites being a Championship outfit.

He said: "We want to go to the end [of the FA Cup] and we have a very good opponent in front [of us] in Leeds. It is going to be tough but we need to feel confidence and energy.

"I think it is going to be tough for all of the circumstances. We need to be strong, have energy. Of course, we are aware [of the rivalry]. Leeds tomorrow is going to be tough. I think of course, I understand the disappointment from our fans but we need their help as always. Leeds is going to be pushing with four or five thousand fans.”

Leeds do have injury concerns of their own, with talismanic Frenchman Georginio Rutter among those considered a doubt.

Related topics:Mauricio PochettinoChelseaBluesLiverpool