Chelsea face a nervous wait over the fitness of Joao Pedro ahead of their crucial final-day clash against Sunderland, with a European spot hanging in the balance.
The forward was left out of the matchday squad for Tuesday night’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over London rivals Tottenham at Stamford Bridge.
Interim boss Calum McFarlane confirmed at his post-match press conference that the attacker had picked up a knock in the cup final defeat against Manchester City, making him a major question mark for the trip to the Stadium of Light on Sunday.
The Blues need a victory as they chase a place in next season’s Europa League.
“Joao Pedro had a slight knock,” McFarlane admitted.
“It is nothing that we are massively concerned about, but again, with the quick turnaround from the City game, it just wasn’t worth risking him in that moment.”
When asked if the forward would be fit enough to start the decisive match against Sunderland this weekend, McFarlane refused to give assurances to the Chelsea faithful.
“It is definitely a wait and see,” he added. “We have a little bit of time from now until then, so we’re hopeful, but we won’t know that until the next couple of days unfold.”
Chelsea are also sweating on the fitness of club captain Reece James and defender Levi Colwill, who are both being eased back into action following injuries.
James remained an unused substitute against Tottenham, while Colwill missed out entirely.