Thiago Silva is not part of Mauricio Pochettino's Chelsea squad for Sunday's Carabao Cup final against Liverpool at Wembley Stadium. The experienced centre-back misses out on the showpiece final due to a minor groin problem.
After coming off after 61 minutes in the recent win away at Crystal Palace, the 39-year-old was not part of the Chelsea matchday party for their 1-1 draw with Man City last time out. Amid question marks over his fitness leading up to the final, head coach Mauricio Pochettino was asked about the Brazilian in his pre-match press conference and he indicated that they would check on the player's fitness on Saturday.
«Yes, he has a chance,» said Pochettino when asked if Thiago Silva had a chance of starting. «Tomorrow, we will see if he is ready to be involved in the game.»
Unfortunately missing out on the Chelsea squad for such a big occasion, the ex-PSG man will be watching on from the sidelines as Axel Disasi continues alongside Levi Colwill at centre-back. As a result of Thiago Silva's absence, Billy Gee, Trevoh Chalobah and Alfie Gilchrist will provide defensive cover on the bench for the Blues.
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With Pochettino keeping faith with the Chelsea team that drew at Man City, Raheem Sterling keeps his place in the XI after scoring at the Etihad Stadium last weekend. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez does return to the squad for the first time since the 2-0 defeat against Everton in December but Djordje Petrovic keeps his place in the XI.
Liverpool also have their injury woes to contend with for the big match. Already set to be
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