Chelsea boss Pochettino reveals when Chukwuemeka is likely to be back 

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has provided an update on England U20 international of Nigerian descent, Carney Chukwuemeka.

Chelsea are facing an injury crisis ahead of the visit of Premier League new boys Luton Town, with Benoit Badiashile, Marcus Bettinelli, Armando Broja, Trevoh Chalobah, Carney Chukwuemeka, Wesley Fofana, Reece James, Mykhailo Mudryk and Christopher Nkunku in the treatment room.

Chukwuemeka netted his first senior goal in Chelsea's 3-1 loss to West Ham United in a London derby on Sunday, but his joy turned to pain within seventeen minutes when he suffered an injury to his left knee.

The talented teenager underwent surgery on Monday night and will work with Chelsea's medical department on his rehabilitation at Cobham.

Previously, it had been reported that the midfielder faced up to six weeks on the sidelines but Pochettino is hoping that the injury will not keep him out of action for months.

In quotes relayed by Chelsea's official website, the Argentine football tactician said at Friday's pre-match press conference: "We will see with Carney. It is not as big an issue that would maybe need months, I think maybe it will be weeks. I hope he can be back as soon as possible with the team again.

"He scored and then he got the issue, that is football. These are factors that you cannot manage and are a little bit unlucky.

"But I think he will become stronger because he was feeling the way he needs to work and compete. He’s young and for sure he’s going to be much better when he starts again."

Chukwuemeka's injury came at the wrong time as he was certainly pushing for a spot in Chelsea's starting lineup, having started their first two games in the Premier League. 

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit: chelseafc.com 

Copyright ANS

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com