‘Very sorry’- Chelsea boss reveals dressing room reaction to Christopher Nkunku’s injury ahead of Liverpool

Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has admitted losing striker Christopher Nkunku at this time is a massive blow to the team because he could play in different positions.

Chelsea will begin their Premier League campaign at home against Liverpool on Sunday but they will have to rejig their front line with Mykhailo Mudryk expected to come in for the injured Nkunku. Chelsea's last meeting with Liverpool ended in a draw but with Pochettino looking for a good start, the Blues will hope they get the better Jurgen Klopp’s side.

They will however have to do without their French forward who impressed during the tour of the United States. Pochettino told reporters ahead of the game against Liverpool. “We feel very sorry about him. He was doing well, he was a very important player for us. I think the quality is there, one of the best offensive players that can play in different positions that always is a big issue for us.”

Nkunku bagged three goals during their tour of the United States and was looking bright before a collision with Dortmund Mats Hummels ruled him out for a considerable amount of time.

The game against Liverpool will also see Reece James begin his leadership tenure since being named as the captain of the side under Pochettino. The Blues finished 12th last season, their worst finish to a campaign in almost three decades.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side will also hope that their last attempt to salvage the Moises Caicedo deal is successful having seen Liverpool outbid them for the Ecuador international.