‘Available to play’: Mauricio Pochettino hints at using Chelsea player for the 1st time against Wimbledon

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Mauricio Pochettino has been speaking about Marc Cucurella as Chelsea prepare to take on Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup.

The Argentine was asked about the Spaniard amid rumours of a potential move to Manchester United before Friday’s transfer deadline.

So, what did Mauricio Pochettino say about Marc Cucurella? Let’s take a look…

What’s the story?

Well – according to The Athletic – Chelsea are willing to loan the £63m man out this summer, and Manchester United are keen after losing Luke Shaw to injury.

When asked about Cucurella’s situation, Pochettino chose to remain coy – the South American did, however, hint that the Spain international may play against Wimbledon.

James Olley quotes the 51-year-old as saying: “I cannot talk about rumours. At the moment, nothing changed. He is for tomorrow going to be available to play.”

Cucurella has been an unused substitute in each of Chelsea’s three Premier League outings so far this season, so we would imagine he’ll get a chance to play against Wimbledon.

However, Pochettino has already admitted to being a huge fan of Ian Maatsen, so the Dutchman could be given the nod at left-back instead.

Cucurella must leave Chelsea if Pochettino overlooks him

If Cucurella, a £63m Spain international who earns £175,000-a-week, is overlooked to face Wimbledon in the League Cup on Wednesday, he really needs to leave Stamford Bridge.

Pochettino has already made it clear to the Chelsea No.3 that he is not an important player by leaving him on the bench in every game so far this season.

That should already be enough to force Cucurella out if he had any ambition, but if the 25-year-old is not chosen to face a League Two side, then Pochettino clearly doesn’t rate him at all.

Be sure to keep an eye on the left-back this week, as Wednesday’s League Cup clash could be his final game for Chelsea if Manchester United step up their interest.