Mauricio Pochettino offers update on Levi Colwill after Chelsea star was forced to withdraw from Villa clash
Posted by  badge Boss on Jan 27, 2024 - 04:52PM
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is hopeful ’s injury is a ‘small issue’ after the star was withdrawn from his side ahead of the clash against Aston Villa.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.’