Mauricio Pochettino offers update on Levi Colwill after Chelsea star was forced to withdraw from Villa clash
Posted by  badge Boss on Jan 27
Colwill was replaced in the starting XI shortly before kick-off (Picture: Getty)

is hopeful ’s injury is a ‘small issue’ after the star was withdrawn from his side ahead of the clash against Aston Villa.

Colwill was set to start at left-back in Friday night’s fourth round clash against Villa at Stamford Bridge.

But the England international pulled up in the warm-up and disappeared down the tunnel ahead of kick-off, prompting a reshuffle at the back from Pochettino.

Alfie Gilchrist was called into the starting XI, slotting in at right-back with Axel Disasi moving inside to centre-half. Benoit Badiashile was shifted out of his role in the centre to take up Colwill’s role on the left.

After a goalless draw in west London, their fourth round contest will head to a replay at Villa Park.

Offering an update on Colwill in his post-match press conference, Pochettino said: ‘We don’t believe it is so bad. It is a small issue and he felt uncomfortable. I hope he can train tomorrow or after tomorrow.’

On Friday morning,

Pochettino had to reshuffle his backline after the setback (Picture: Getty)

Klopp and Pochettino have shared a number of battles over the years, including the 2019 Champions League final, with the Chelsea boss paying tribute to the German coach.

‘I was in shock. I saw the news. It’s really sad. When we were sacked from Tottenham, the first message I received was from him. I haven’t sent him a message but I will thank him on Wednesday. We will miss him, but we should accept [his decision].

‘The job he has done with Liverpool is amazing. He wishes to rest and go away for a little bit. I think he deserves but it is sad for people who love football.

‘He is a great character and Liverpool and English football will miss him. When he arrived, his first game was against us [Spurs] at White Hart Lane,’ Pochettino said.

‘We drew 0-0. His legacy is massive. I congratulate him and his coaching staff. He deserves the praise he will receive from now until the end of the season.’