Pochettino offers cryptic update on dropped Chelsea winger Noni Madueke

Mauricio Pochettino offered a cryptic update on Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, saying he was included in the squad for Wednesday’s Carabao Cup fixture due to “choice”.

The Blues ended a three-game winless run by beating Brighton 1-0 in the third round, but the 21-year-old forward didn’t feature.

“No, it’s about choice,” Pochettino said, when asked if Madueke was still carrying an injury.

The Chelsea boss went on to praise his team for showing “character” and “personality” to beat Brighton.

Nicolas Jackson scored the only goal of the game in the second half to send the Blues through to the fourth round.