Lampard hopeful Havertz will play against Rennes

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is hopeful Kai Havertz will be available to face Rennes in Tuesday’s Champions League game.

The German winger was forced to spend two weeks in isolation after a positive Covid-19 test earlier this month and despite returning to training was not fit for selection for the 2-0 win at Newcastle on Saturday.

“I hope he is available,” Lampard said.

“He has been in two or three days doing some individual work and he looks pretty good.

“He is a naturally fit boy and I hope to have him travelling to Rennes with us on Tuesday.

“Maybe he will get some minutes, I am not sure yet, but he looks in good shape.”

Chelsea’s entire starting line-up for the lunchtime kick-off win at St James’ Park were involved in midweek international duty and the team will fly out to France on Monday for Tuesday’s 5.55pm kick-off.

Lampard said he is unsure if he will make changes to his side, with Thiago Silva also set to return to the squad, but said Rennes will pose a big threat on home soil despite being rooted to the foot of Group E.

“It will be a big test and I will make decisions on making changes or not depending on how the recovery looks,” he said.

“A lot of them have played international minutes so we will see how they are over the next 24-48 hours.

“But I don’t underestimate Rennes. We are still in a position where we need to try and get a result.

“I have faith in the squad but I will pick the strongest team possible with view to where the fresh legs are

“We have five subs in the Champions League which is a big plus for us so we can make decisions in games if we have to. But it will be a tough game out there.”