This archive report was first published on 17 September 2019.
Chelsea's Antonio Rudiger has been sidelined with a groin injury, forcing him to miss the team's Champions League opener against Valencia on September 17, 2019, at Stamford Bridge.
According to Chelsea manager Frank Lampard, Rudiger suffered the injury during the team's 5-2 win over Wolves on September 14, 2019.
Lampard revealed that Rudiger will undergo a scan to determine the extent of the injury, but for now, he is out of the match.
Additionally, Lampard also confirmed that N'Golo Kante and Callum Hudson-Odoi will not be available for the match, citing that they are 'fit, but not match fit'.
Despite the injuries, Lampard expressed confidence in his team's ability to perform well against Valencia, stating that he believed in Tammy Abraham's abilities and trusted him to lead the line.
Abraham had a decent show against Wolves in the Premier League, and Lampard expects him to replicate that form against Valencia.
“Toni is injured, he bothered by a small groin problem he's been carrying so he's out and he'll have a scan,” Lampard said.
“I never had clear expectations for him apart from the fact that I believed in him and trusted him,” Lampard said.
“I know a lot was made of the (transfer) ban giving opportunities for young players. But I thought now was his time,” Lampard added.
