Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel says he hopes that Mason Mount will return in time for the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool after suffering injured ligaments. Mount has garnered a reputation as one of the most exciting young midfield players in the world in recent years.
However, we was forced off injured in the Club World Cup final victory over Brazilian side Palmeiras last weekend.
And Tuchel has now confirmed the extent of the issue, but hopes to be able to call on the 23-year-old at Wembley on February 27.
“We will push for the League Cup final,” Tuchel said. “We will push. He has injured ligaments.”
Meanwhile, Tuchel singled out Cesar Azpilicueta for praise after the Spaniard helped the side win yet another title.
During the week, Neil Warnock questioned whether the full-back may be slightly overrated by some in the world of football.
But Tuchel had nothing but praise for his defender, who is being linked with a move to Barcelona.
“He’s always important,” Tuchel added. “He has been super important since day one, we had a good connection from the first day which you always wish for as a coach.
“He is a leader by example, which is always super, super nice to have. He’s collected so many trophies, had such a great career at the club, he is outstanding.
“He embodies everything Chelsea stand for.”
Finally, Tuchel also took time to praise goalkeeper Kepa, who was dropped for the final following the return of Edouard Mendy from AFCON.
“Kepa is so good in training and in the games. He could be the number one, yes, but he is not because we have Mendy and Edou is our number one.
“There is no need to change. But full credit to Kepa, he is an outstanding character, an outstanding team player.
“I can only say thank you for how much he gives to the team. It was a hard decision [for the Club World Cup final] but still we would’ve done the same thing if it was the other way around.
“We take it as normal but it’s normal how he behaves in pushing the team. He deserves the very best.”