Pochettino has issued a stern warning to Liverpool, emphasizing that his Chelsea side will approach Sunday’s Carabao Cup final with unwavering commitment, regardless of the available personnel.
The highly anticipated clash between Chelsea and Liverpool marks the initial opportunity for silverware in the English domestic season and serves as a rematch of their intense 2022 encounter, which Liverpool claimed victory in after a gripping 11-10 penalty shootout.
The memorable shootout from the previous encounter witnessed the dramatic substitution of Kepa Arrizabalaga in the final minute of extra time, specifically for the penalty shootout.
However, Kepa’s miss in the decisive spot-kick, with the score tied at 10-10, added unparalleled drama to the conclusion of the match.
Both teams are eager to avoid such high-stakes theatrics this time around, especially considering their subsequent fixture schedules following Sunday’s final.
The hope is to settle the outcome within regular time, though injury concerns pose challenges for both managers in fielding their most experienced players.
As the Carabao Cup final approaches, both Chelsea and Liverpool grapple with significant injury lists, potentially sidelining key talents from both squads.
While the match promises to showcase considerable talent, several players may remain absent due to injuries. Examining the injury statuses of both teams reveals the following:
Reece James:Sidelined with a thigh injury, expected to return in March or April. OUT
Thiago Silva:Dealing with a groin injury, missed the match against Manchester City, uncertainty remains regarding his availability for the final. WAIT AND SEE
Marc Cucurella:Nursing an ankle injury, currently training individually, slated to return in March. OUT
Benoit Badiashile:Recovering from a groin injury, anticipated to be back in action in March. OUT
Wesley Fofana:Rehabilitating from an ACL injury, targeted to return in April. OUT
Carney Chukwuemeka:Battling an ankle injury, severity yet to be determined. WAIT AND SEE
Lesley Ugochukwu:Hindered by a thigh injury, return date remains unknown. OUT
Robert Sanchez:Dealing with a knee injury, expected to return against Man City but was not in the squad. WAIT AND SEE
Romeo Lavia:Struggling with a thigh injury, still not participating in first-team training. OUT
The extensive list of injuries poses a challenge for both managers, and the wait-and-see status for some players adds an element of uncertainty to the final lineup.
Despite the setbacks, Pochettino’s warning to Liverpool underscores Chelsea’s determination to give their all in pursuit of victory in the Carabao Cup final.
