Mateo Kovacic checks optimistic for COVID-19 whereas accidents mount for Chelsea

Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic is isolating after testing optimistic for COVID-19 forward of their ultimate Champions League group recreation at Zenit St Petersburg whereas 4 different gamers are out injured, supervisor Thomas Tuchel mentioned on Tuesday.
Kovacic, who has 5 league assists, was again in rivalry for the primary time since October after a thigh harm dominated the Croatia worldwide out of Chelsea’s final eight video games in all competitions.
“Mateo was in training yesterday with a big smile and (it)was pure pleasure to have him back, but he tested positive today for COVID-19 and is isolating,” Tuchel informed reporters forward of Wednesday’s recreation.
“I was aware that this (more COVID-19 cases) could happen and I’m not happy about it, not only as a manager but as a person. But this is what reality is at the moment, so we have to be ready to adapt and secure people’s health.”
Ben Chilwell, N’Golo Kante (each knee), Trevoh Chalobah (thigh) and Jorginho (again downside) are additionally dominated out for Wednesday’s recreation.
Kai Havertz limped off at halftime throughout their 3-2 Premier League defeat at West Ham United on the weekend, however the German was again in coaching on Tuesday.
Tuchel mentioned Chelsea have “an acute overload” as a result of accidents and a busy schedule, with the staff as a result of play six extra matches in all competitions this month after they return from Russia.
“Due to injuries in some positions, like central midfield, we struggle, but the game tomorrow is not a problem in terms of being overloaded,” Tuchel added.
“The problem is the next match on Saturday (against Leeds United) because we will lose time to sleep, arrive back very early on Thursday… Then we face an intense team in Leeds who have prepared to play this match.”
Chelsea have already certified for the Champions League’s knockout levels and are tied on 12 factors with Juventus on the prime of Group H. The London membership can end as group leaders in the event that they match or higher Juventus’ consequence towards Malmo.