Mateo Kovacic is yet again sidelined for Chelsea’s commitments up next in Premier League action as Thomas Tuchel’s side take on city foes Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.
Tuchel confirmed in his pre-match press conference that the Croatian midfielder will be an absentee for the midweek clash in the capital but should be in line to feature come Saturday at Wembley in the FA Cup finale.
Kovacic out for Wednesday’s action at the Bridge says Tuchel
The former Real Madrid man has not featured in the Chelsea colours since April after injuring himself and despite rumours of his return to the on-field action as the season nears its end, Kovacic will not partake in the game against the Gunners, according to Tuchel.
“He is not ready for tomorrow, we have to postpone it to Wembley. His personal race is on to make it to the squad for Wembley.
Kovacic has established himself to be a regular in the Chelsea XI since the hiring of Tuchel at the Bridge and has fended off competition for the two central midfield spots with the likes of N’Golo Kante and Jorginho.
Tuchel rues Kovacic’s injury absence, hopes Gilmour can excel in new role
The Chelsea gaffer has admitted to the setback to his side over the prolonged absence of Kovacic who has been a ‘big miss’ for the west Londoners, said Tuchel.
He, however, expressed hopes that the younger Billy Gilmour step up his game in what would be extended involvement coming his way in lieu of the lack of options at Tuchel’s disposal to draft in the centre of the park.
“Billy Gilmour had to step up now because we miss Kova so much and we play normally always with a double-six, so we were rotating constantly between N’Golo, Jorgi and Kova. Once we miss Kova now for so many games, so many weeks, it was on Billy to step up and I was very happy that he could deliver when it was needed.
“So full credit for that, but Kova is a big loss with his ability to drive with the ball, his speed on the ball, without the ball. Kova is such a positive character and unique player, a real fighter on who you can always rely in games and training.
“We really miss him, he is a good match with Jorgi and N’Golo in all combinations. So it’s a big miss and I can’t wait until he’s back in full team training. He’s taken some steps in the right direction and I hope he can rejoin team training after our game with Arsenal.”
