Pochettino argued that Cole Palmer’s possible absence against Arsenal should serve as a motivation for the rest of his players
By Kehinde Okeowo
Chelsea boss, Mauricio Pochettino, has challenged his players to prove their worth in the absence of English Premier League’s joint top scorer, Cole Palmer.
The England winger was conspicuously absent during Chelsea’s training ahead of Tuesday’s league clash against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
The Blues’ talisman and top scorer is a doubt for the London Derby following a bout of illness.
However, when asked if Palmer was indispensable ahead of the very consequential encounter against Arsenal, Pochettino said the England international is not the only player in the team.
He went on to call on the rest of the squad to step up in his absence, claiming Palmer’s possible absence from the match, should serve as a motivation for the rest of his players.
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Speaking with pressmen at his press briefing before the encounter, the Argentine tactician said: It’s a good challenge if Palmer is not available vs Arsenal.
“If I were them, I would be motivated to go there tomorrow and show that this is Chelsea Football Club, not Cole Palmer Football Club.”
Meanwhile, a win for Arsenal in the game, will take them to 77 points and 3 points clear of their closest challenger, Liverpool, who are currently on 74 points and won’t be playing until Wednesday.
It will also take them 4 points away from EPL champions, Man City whose game against Brighton is expected to take place on Thursday.
However, a loss for the Gunners will see Chelsea gain 60 points and climb above Man United into 7th position on the log table.
