Chelsea have handled Raheem Sterling’s return with additional caution despite their goal-shy form and need to increase their attacking threat.
Wary of the recurring injuries they have already suffered this season, Chelsea have been keen to avoid taking any risks with Sterling and opted against rushing him back.
Summer signing Sterling suffered a hamstring injury against former club Manchester City but recovered from that in time to make a second-half appearance against Fulham a fortnight ago.
But he has missed Chelsea’s last two games against West Ham and Borussia Dortmund after suffering a knock to the knee in training.
Sterling is keen to get back and aid Chelsea’s push to salvage their season in the second half of the campaign.
He was hopeful of being involved for the Champions League trip to Germany, underlining that desire.
However the England star, Chelsea’s joint-top scorer this season, was deemed not quite ready for the last-16 first leg though will now be eyeing Southampton’s visit on Saturday for his comeback.
Chelsea drew a blank at Dortmund despite creating a host of chances. They have scored twice in a game on just two occasions in their last 15 matches, netting just nine times in total and winning only three times.
Against Dortmund they were also without their only fit and recognised striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as he was omitted from Graham Potter’s Champions League squad for the knockout stages.
Aubameyang can play in the Premier League but has also sat out their last two games, his current plight putting his long-term future in doubt and making it uncertain if he will be handed a recall and chance to help solve Chelsea’s goal shortage against Southampton.
January attacking signings Joao Felix and Mykhailo Mudryk have made an impact and increased Potter’s forward options though more are earmarked for the summer.
A deal for RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku has already been agreed while Napoli’s prolific striker Victor Osimhen is also on Chelsea’s summer shortlist.
SOURCE: dailymail.co.uk
