Ahead of Chelsea v Southampton Antonio Conte has provided injury updates and expected return dates
The Blues welcome the Saints this weekend and fans have been wondering who’s in and who’s out.
During his usual pre-game press conference Chelsea boss Antonio Conte explained why the Brazilian would be out of action. Andreas Christensen is likely to continue to play as the leading figure at the back alongside Gary Cahill and Cesar Azpilicueta.
In his pre-match press conference, Conte provided more detail
“David has a big inflammation in his knee and we are trying to solve this situation with the doctor,” he said. “It’s important to assess the situation day by day and to try solve this problem.”
Unfortunately, the Chelsea manager is unable to put a date on his defender’s return.
“I don’t know when he is able to come back with us, but for sure with the doctor and the medical department we are trying to solve the situation. The situation is inflammation in his knee.
“For sure the player is working apart [from the main squad] in the last days was out to work in the pool and today he’s been on the pitch trying to run a bit but very slow. It’s a serious problem but we hope to solve this problem as soon as possible.”
He also admitted that Luiz is not happy about his inability to play for the Premier League champions amid rumours that he wishes to quit to join Manchester United or another suitor in January or the summer.
“I think every player is frustrated when they don’t play especially when they have an injury. For sure there is frustration with the injury because every player wants to be in every training session and I understand because I was a player.
“When I was injured my feeling was very bad. It was sad. You want to feel very well and then to be available for the competition, for the training session, and to be in contention for the competition. But injuries are part of their jobs.”
Morata is still not yet 100% , however he will be fit enough play some part in the game if he is needed.
“He is better,” said Conte. “He trained with us two days ago and today. He has this pain in his back but is in contention for tomorrow’s game.
“No new injuries, all my players are available for tomorrow’s game.”
Alvaro Morata –Â
Injury type:Â Back
Out since:Â December 9
Return date:Â December 16
David Luiz –Â Â
Injury type:Â Knee
Out since:Â November 28
Return date:Â Unknown
