Abraham still struggling ahead of United clash

Tammy Abraham will need to be assessed ahead of Chelsea’s game against Manchester United and Christian Pulisic is not ready to return.

Blues boss Frank Lampard revealed at a news conference on Friday afternoon that Abraham, who has been recovering from an ankle problem, was withdrawn from training earlier this week.

The striker has since returned to training and Chelsea are hoping he will be available for Monday’s match.

The game comes too soon for Pulisic, who has been out since New Year’s Day because of a groin problem.

Lampard said: “Tammy is still feeling the effects, to be honest.

“We’ve had to take him out of training a couple of days this week. He trained today, so we’re hopeful. He’ll be assessed over the weekend.”

Pulisic’s injury has been a blow for Chelsea as the American was in excellent form prior to being sidelined.

It was hoped he would be in contention for the United game but Pulisic is still not training with the first-team squad.

“Christian trained with the Under-23s today, which will hopefully be (for) a short period,” Lampard explained.

Lampard added that Ruben Loftus-Cheek is “getting closer” to a return from the ruptured Achilles tendon the England midfielder suffered last season.

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