Wolves Chelsea Pochettino players play victory charity

Pochettino cautions Chelsea players that Premier League football is "not a charity" as they prepare to face Wolves on Sunday.

Mauricio Pochettino, the manager of Chelsea, has issued a warning to his players, emphasizing that Premier League football is not a charity as they prepare to face Wolves at Molineux on Sunday. The team has been grappling with absences this season and currently sits in 10th position in the Premier League ahead of their upcoming match.

Pochettino confirmed that Belgium international Romeo Lavia, who joined the team in a £58 million deal from Southampton, could be included in the squad for the Wolves clash. However, he mentioned that 26-year-old Christopher Nkunku, who recently made his debut as a substitute in a League Cup win over Newcastle, is still working on regaining full fitness following knee surgery.

The manager stressed the importance of understanding the competitive environment of the game, emphasizing that players must train rigorously and make a significant impact every time they step onto the pitch. He expressed his frustration with the lack of understanding surrounding the expectations and demands of professional football.

Pochettino also addressed the disappointment of some players and their supporters when they are not included in the lineup, emphasizing that decisions are based on the readiness of the players to compete and provide what is expected of them at that moment.

Additionally, Pochettino confirmed that captain Reece James would be out for "several weeks" due to a hamstring injury that required surgery. He also expressed his support for Chelsea's decision to distance themselves from the European Super League, a project that the club was initially involved in but later withdrew from.

In conclusion, Pochettino's message to his players is clear: Premier League football is a serious and competitive business, and players must be fully prepared and committed to making an impact on the pitch. He stands by the decisions made by the club and emphasizes the importance of understanding the competitive nature of the sport.