January loan signing Alexandre Pato is not expected to be involved for Chelsea FC against Watford on Wednesday, while Brazilian winger Willian will face a late fitness test ahead of the game.
Blues supporters will have to wait a little longer to see the former AC Milan wonderkid in action for Chelsea FC, with the Brazilian gradually building up his match fitness since his arrival in London. Meanwhile, young centre-half Matt Miazga will also not be in the match-day squad as he continues to adjust to life at Stamford Bridge.
In somewhat worrying news for Guus Hiddink, Brazilian Willian is a doubt with a foot injury, but the winger could yet start the game if he passes a late fitness test. Meanwhile, Eden Hazard is expected to retain his place in the starting line-up after making his first start since his return from injury against MK Dons on Sunday.
Pato not yet ready for Premier League action
Chelsea FC boss Guus Hiddink revealed in his pre-match press conference ahead of the game that Pato had left the country due to ‘bureaucratic reasons’, but was expected to train on Tuesday afternoon with the rest of the squad.
The Dutchman is quoted by the official Chelsea FC website as saying: “Yesterday he had to do bureaucratic stuff, which we have to accept, he was out of the country and had to get paperwork done. He’s worked for a few training sessions now and will of course be in this afternoon.
“I don’t know if he’s up to the game but we’ll decide later this afternoon. He’s in preparation. The paperwork is done and formally he is available but that’s another thing to physically and mentally.
‘That’s why we have to prepare him very well as soon as possible. We have a tight schedule coming up.”
Late fitness test for Willian
The Brazilian attacker was not involved in Chelsea FC’s emphatic 5-1 win against MK Dons on Sunday, and Hiddink explained that his absence was due to some bruising on his foot. However, the former Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder could return to the starting line-up again on Wednesday — subject to a late fitness test.
“Willian didn’t go on the pitch yesterday because he had bruising on his foot,” added Hiddink. “Today he will be on the pitch and we’ll see how his reaction is after training.”
Meanwhile, striker Loïc Rémy continues to be unavailable due to a calf injury, while Radamel Falcao continues his recovery from a thigh injury, with no date provided for the Colombian’s return.
