Chelsea team news: Callum Hudson-Odoi ruled out with hamstring injury but Christian Pulisic fit to return
Frank Lampard confirmed the England international will be unavailable for this weekend’s Premier League match
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Your support makes all the difference.Callum Hudson-Odoi has been ruled out of Chelsea’s match against Manchester City with a hamstring injury.
Frank Lampard confirmed the England international would be unavailable for the game in his pre-match press conference on Friday, however, Christian Pulisic is expected to return from a hip injury.
The American has scored five goals in his last five games, including a hat-trick against Burnley last month which cemented his place in the starting XI, and missed international duty in a bid to recover in time.
“Christian Pulisic didn’t go and we had full-on communication with the States and their medical team; I respect that they want their top players,” said Lampard.
“He had a problem going into the last game against Palace, hence why he came off after his goal. He’s started training and he’s in contention to play.
“Callum Hudson-Odoi has a hamstring issue that he picked up in the England game, so he will struggle to be in contention for this game but we’re hopeful it’s short term.”
Ross Barkley will be subject to a late fitness test after missing England’s qualifying wins due to an ankle injury.
Chelsea and City are third and fourth respectively going into the match with the Blues riding a wave of momentum having won their last six Premier League games.
Lampard also revealed he’s sent a message of good luck to his former manager Jose Mourinho after the Portuguese’s appointment at rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
“We had a couple of messages just to wish him well in his new role as he has always done for me,” the 41-year-old said. “I think history and results speak for themselves; the trophies, titles he’s managed to win at clubs, they are not surprises, they are for the hard work he’s put in. He’s done that consistently.
“Everywhere you go it’s a new beginning, I don’t think you can rely on that. But people will hold up his record and expect big things from him.”
However, he insisted he would never follow suit and manager another London club.
“I was here for 13 years as a player and have an absolutely deep feeling for a club,” Lampard said. “Chelsea is certainly so close to my heart hence why I am so proud to manage the club and why I wouldn’t manage Tottenham.
“That’s no disrespect to anyone, it’s just because of what Chelsea has given me over my time as a player and now, it’s certainly not on my list.”
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