Carabao Cup: Pochettino calls for patience after Nkunku’s debut for Chelsea

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Mauricio Pochettino, the manager of Chelsea, is urging fans to be patient with Christopher Nkunku, who made his long-awaited debut for the team in Tuesday night's Carabao Cup victory over Newcastle United.

Nkunku, the 26-year-old summer signing from RB Leipzig, had been sidelined due to a serious knee injury sustained during pre-season. 

Finally returning to the pitch, he made a significant impact during the Carabao Cup quarter-final clash at Stamford Bridge, entering the game as a substitute with 20 minutes remaining.

In a dramatic turn of events, Nkunku not only contributed to the team's 1-1 draw but also showcased his skills by successfully converting a penalty during the subsequent shootout, ultimately securing Chelsea's triumph.

Pochettino emphasizes the need for patience as Nkunku continues his journey back to full fitness and integration into the team.

When asked about the forward’s display, Pochettino said at his post-match press conference: “We are talking about players that are young. Who arrive and suffer an injury, like Christopher.

“Now they meet the team and in the middle of the competition they need time to start to perform and to get the best form and sometimes everyone can judge you have recovered the player, but most important is in which form?

“The expectation is to see the best Nkunku and we need time for him to perform in the way that we expect. One thing is to be available another is to perform in the way we we expect.

“We will not put too much pressure on him day by day, and push him to arrive as soon as possible at his best to try to help the team.”

Source: dailypost.ng

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