Chelsea boss reveals that he is pretty worried about David Luiz following the atrocious tackle from Sergio Aguero in last weekend’s fiery encounter at the Etihad Stadium.
The Brazilian defender returned back to Stamford Bridge on summer’s transfer deadline day and since then has excelled in Conte’s 3-4-3 formation. He anchors the heart of the three-man backline and has helped his side to earn 7 clean sheets this term.
Just like the former Juventus manager, the fans were sweating over his condition after he bore the brunt of Aguero’s rash tackle. The aftermath of the pointless challenge got players from both sides involving in a tug of war at the dugout and once the situation waned down, Fernandinho accompanied the Argentinian to leave the pitch after picking up the second red card of the match. The match ended 3-1 favouring the visitors and Chelsea continue to dominate the summit of the Premier League table after 14 matches.
A few days later, FA decided to fine Chelsea and Manchester City for not controlling their players, while Aguero and Fernandinho are chained with bans. The former is to miss out four fixtures and the Brazilian would return one match before.
After seeing the footage, the 47-year-old completely agreed with most of the spectators that it was a dangerous challenge.
Conte said (via Evening Standard): “That tackle was dangerous, for sure. I watched the images and I was afraid [he might be injured]. I was scared. He’s trying to recover from this tackle.
“I only realised after I saw the replays. That’s when I saw this was very dangerous for David Luiz.”
Besides that, he mentioned that the former PSG defender is a doubt to feature in their home fixture against West Brom this Sunday. Yet a late fitness test will be expected.
He added: “I have to check on Saturday if David Luiz is able to play on Sunday because, after this tackle I don’t know.
“This tackle was very bad so I have to check on his recovery from his injury. It will be very important for him and for me to decide whether he’s able to play on Sunday.”
Veteran defender John Terry is likely to be sidelined for the next match too after picking up a gluteal strain. However, Conte will have Kurt Zouma at his disposal. The towering Frenchman missed 7 months with a lengthy injury and is biding time to find a way back into the first team. The 22-year-old may have only played 38 matches so far for the club yet is now worth tenfold after impressing under Jose Mourinho’s tutelage last season.
Tony Pulis’ West Brom will be coming over with full confidence as they have collected 10 points out of their last four matches. The Baggies may not have the quickest attacking lineup to trouble their opponent yet have netted 10 times from set pieces this term.
With or without David Luiz, Chelsea are most likely to remain with a three-man defensive line and holding the home ground advantage along a splendid run of form, the Blues will be looking to seize maximum points.
Leave a Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.