When Tammy Abraham wasn’t included in the matchday squad, there was quite the reaction on social media.
A firefighting attempt was soon made by the club, who briefed Matt Law of the Daily Telegraph that Abraham wasn’t 100% fit, explaining his absence.
It seems doubtful from the very start – he started a game just days after he picked up his ankle injury against Newcastle, and was on the bench this week – and training too.
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
And sure enough, when asked after the game, Thomas Tuchel admitted it was purely a selection issue, and that he only had room for 18 in his squad, so some would miss out:
Tuchel said he didn't select Tammy Abraham just for selection reasons. "I have to make hard decisions with the guys and this is why Tammy is not with the group." #CFC #CHEMUN
— Nizaar Kinsella (@NizaarKinsella) February 28, 2021
Tuchel says he chose to leave Abraham out..no mention of an injury. #CFC #CHEMUN
— Simon Johnson (@SJohnsonSport) February 28, 2021
That’s even stranger. He had TWO left backs on the bench, and the team was screaming out for a number nine for most of the second half.
Let’s hope it was just an odd decision from the gaffer, and not the first sign of something more sinister.
