This archive report was first published on 13 September 2019.
Chelsea midfielder N'Golo Kante will miss the team's trip to Wolves on Saturday, September 14, due to an ankle injury sustained during the international break.
Manager Frank Lampard confirmed on Friday, September 13, that Kante's return against Wolves is 'too soon', casting doubt on his availability for Chelsea's Champions League match against Valencia on Tuesday, September 17, and their Premier League clash against Liverpool next Sunday.
However, Lampard expressed optimism about Kante's recovery, stating, 'I don't want to jump the gun because we're waiting for improvement to fill that final step to get him to where we want him to be on the pitch again. But hopefully that will be in a week or so.'
Meanwhile, Antonio Rudiger is set to return to the Chelsea defense after recovering from a knee injury that ended his season prematurely. Lampard praised Rudiger's influence, saying, 'It's a choice for myself, but he will have an important role. We have missed him as we have with a few more front-line players.'
Chelsea have struggled defensively this season, conceding nine goals in their four Premier League matches, with only Norwich having a worse record.
Lampard also spoke about the performances of young players Mason Mount and Tammy Abraham, warning them to maintain their standards in the face of increasing scrutiny.
-Report by skysports
