Christopher Nkunku is anticipated to be included in Chelsea’s matchday roster for their next match against Sheffield United. Although the Frenchman has participated in first team training over the last two weeks, he has not yet appeared for the Blues in a competitive game.

During the summer transfer window, Nkunku finished his £52 million move from RB Leipzig to Stamford Bridge. Days before the Premier League season started, the 26-year-old suffered a catastrophic knee injury that postponed his Chelsea debut.

When asked about Nkunku’s fitness last week, Mauricio Pochettino said: “Still assessing day by day, see tomorrow. I don’t believe that he will be involved but we need to assess day by day.”

Ahead of the disappointing defeat against Everton last weekend, Pochettino offered a fresh update on Nkunku and Romeo Lavia as the Chelsea duo build up their sharpness ahead of making their official Chelsea debuts. When asked if either player will feature against the Blades, the Blues’ manager said: “We’ll see.

“The last step is always the most difficult thing. They are so close, but at the same time we had a small delay, but we hope that they can be involved soon.”

Pochettino’s succinct reply gave some semblance of hope that the two Chelsea players could eventually be chosen for action after another week of training. Online rumors now claim that Nkunku will be included in the matchday roster when they play Chris Wilder’s team this coming weekend.

@ChelseaHQ_ posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Christopher Nkunku WILL be in the Chelsea squad on Saturday to face Sheffield United. Poch has already made the decision, baring any late slip ups in training. Christo WILL make his debut.”

Nkunku is ‘likely’ to be a part of the Blues’ roster this weekend, according to TEAMTalk writer Fraser Gillan. Chelsea would greatly benefit from this as they try to find a solution to their goal-scoring problems and begin climbing the Premier League standings with some improved performances.