Tammy Abraham was not included in Chelsea’s matchday squad today, a move which raised some eyebrows around the league.
The word is that it’s not tactical however, and in fact Abraham’s bad ankle is playing up, meaning he’s not even risked on the bench.
Matt Law of the Daily Telegraph, a man who is always well connected when it comes to this sort of thing, tweeted that “Tammy Abraham’s ankle not 100%”, which is a relief, in a way.
Told Tammy Abraham's ankle not 100 per cent which is why he's not on the bench for Chelsea today #cfc
— Matt Law (@Matt_Law_DT) February 28, 2021
The forward limped off against Newcastle last week after picking up the injury, but was then a surprise starter against Southampton as Thomas Tuchel looked to keep Giroud fit for the game against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday night.
Perhaps Tammy pushed himself a little too hard with that early comeback, and is now paying the price. Either way, Timo Werner is on the bench to play up front if necessary later in this game.