Jeff Stelling has called for Chelsea to start one player tonight in their EFL Cup quarter-final with Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge.
He told TalkSPORT (19/12) that the Blues have to play Christopher Nkunku from the beginning in order to give supporter some encouragement for what is to come in the second half of the season.
Nkunku was named on the bench for the last game against Sheffield United in the Premier League.
However, goals from Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson eased any concerns that they could need to risk him off the bench.
Mauricio Pochettino has hinted that he could find himself on the pitch in some capacity for tonight.
Stelling has advised the manager to just that, in an attempt to boost the mood around the Bridge heading into the second half of the campaign.
Stelling tells Chelsea to start Nkunku
He said: “Christopher Nkunku might be able to get some minutes in the game against Newcastle Gus, it’s important that Chelsea fans get a sighting of him to give them some encouragement that he could be the answer in the second half of the season.”
Gus Poyet agreed, saying: “Yes, no doubt. I think it will be important if he can get in when the game is still in a good position because I remember the last game between Chelsea and Newcastle.
“Everything was alright 1-1, not too many problems, and then the second half Chelsea collapsed completely and it finished 4-1, it’s not a long time ago, three or four weeks ago.
“So, I think it’s important you have as many players as possible.
“Big, big issue Reece James. You know when you give the captaincy to one of your special players and he’s not there. You as a coach you have a problem.
“So, obviously they need to get the most quantity of players and try to get the best 11 out, week in, week out because not playing in Europe is something good for a coach, you have the whole week to train.”
The France international will no doubt be chomping at the bit to get involved, after enjoying a strong pre-season tour before the injury.
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