Chelsea reportedly have no intention of risking Christopher Nkunku against Manchester City on Sunday.
The Blues hierarchy were proactive in securing a deal for the versatile attacker to arrive at Stamford Bridge during the summer transfer window.
Nkunku made an instant impression in pre-season, immediately linking up effectively with Nicolas Jackson during the club's tour of the USA.
However, the France international suffered a knee injury against Borussia Dortmund that would rule him out for approximately four months.
In his absence, Chelsea - and Jackson, in particular - have struggled at times in the final third, resulting in a slow start to the season.
© Reuters
Chelsea have since improved to record four wins from their last six games in all competitions, including Monday night's 4-1 triumph over previously-unbeaten Tottenham Hotspur.
Nevertheless, there remains much anticipation ahead of Nkunku coming back into contention, with head coach Mauricio Pochettino having already hinted that progress is being made.
The latest update came on October 27, Pochettino saying that Nkunku is doing "really really well" and that the hope is "he can be involved as soon as possible".
According to Fabrizio Romano, though, the 25-year-old will not be considered for his debut against Man City in Sunday's league fixture.
© Reuters
Despite his recent comments, Pochettino has insisted that he did not expect Nkunku to be available for selection until after the November international break.
Chelsea face a trip to Newcastle United when they are back in action on November 25, and Romano suggests that the plan is for Nkunku to be assessed ahead of the visit to St James' Park.
Pochettino still has an array of attacking talent at his disposal with Cole Palmer, Raheem Sterling, Mykhaylo Mudryk and Noni Madueke competing for places alongside Jackson in the final third.
Armando Broja may also come back into the fold on Sunday after no risks were taken on his recent knee issue against Spurs, Deivid Washington instead remaining among the replacements.
Darren Plant
