Pochettino insists Chalobah is part of his plans

Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has insisted that Trevoh Chalobah is part of his plans.

It comes amid reports that the defender has no future at the club and has been frozen out after rejecting a move away from Stamford Bridge during the recent transfer window.

Nottingham Forest were among clubs interested in Chalobah, who is currently unavailable because of injury.

Pochettino said: “Of course he’s part of my plans.

“I am the coach and his future is going to be involved in my plan. No one is going to decide for me.

“Now the transfer window has closed, all the players who are here are in my plans.”

Meanwhile, Pochettino hopes to have Reece James back before next month’s international break.

The England international, who has been beset by injuries, is currently out with a hamstring problem.

“He is recovering well. I don’t know if he is close or not. We assess him every day and he has started doing things on the pitch with the ball,” Pochettino said.

“He is desperate to help the team. Hopefully he can be available before the next international break.”

Recent signing Romeo Lavia, who has yet to make his debut since arriving from Southampton, is nursing an ankle injury.

Pochettino explained: “Romeo Lavia was training well last week and in the international break he twisted his ankle so we are waiting for Monday to find out more. It’s a sad situation because he was nearly ready to be involved.

“Armando Broja isn’t ready to play just yet and it’s the same for Benoit Badiashile.”