Thomas Tuchel left the door open wide when asked whether Romelu Lukaku would be a starter for Chelsea in the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool.
Tuchel has faced a barrage of questions throughout the season about the stuttering striker for a variety of reasons.
Seven but not in heaven
Investigations into Lukaku ramped up again following his shoddy showing at Selhurst Park last Saturday.
Seven touches is all he could muster against Crystal Palace, a Premier League record for contact with the football.
Understandably, the Belgian felt the full force of the media’s criticism, not to mention supporters showing their disgruntlement.
As a way of sheltering the centre-forward, Tuchel dropped Lukaku for yesterday’s Champions League triumph over Lille.
This, of course, led to another line of inquests.
One of the storylines many persuade was about Sunday’s cup final at Wembley.
Was the number nine rested to have him readily available to face Liverpool, or did Tuchel lift the lid on the front line he wants to face the Reds?
“Let’s see,” the German coach told beIN SPORTS about Lukaku’s possible involvement this weekend.
“No (not thinking about the final), for today was for today. We have some players with minor injuries.
“We need all days to recover, we need a squad to fight against Liverpool.”
Lukaku may be in luck
Whether he likes it not, Tuchel might have little choice but to include Lukaku in Chelsea’s next line-up.
Hakim Ziyech and Mateo Kovacic both sustained injuries last night, two players who would surely start the showdown with Jurgen Klopp’s men.
Callum Hudson-Odoi is also a doubt for the match, much like Reece James, although hope remains for the defender to return in time.
In coordination with the Blues’ fortunes this season, there could be a few more causalities this week.
Lukaku will not wish ill upon his teammates, yet if it means he gets the nod from the manager, he probably won’t complain.
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