Graham Potter has told his Chelsea squad that the upcoming World Cup will not affect his team selection, with competition for places higher than ever.
With the World Cup in Qatar now only a month away, players on the periphery are desperate to get game time in order to not only boost their chances of regular selection in the tournament, but to also ensure they are in peak form. Christian Pulisic is one of those looking to break back into the Chelsea team, but Potter isn't bothered about personal interests.
Pulisic is one of the star men of the USMNT, and any success that comes their way will likely be down to his efforts in Qatar. But Potter has said he will only pick the American if it suits the best interests of Chelsea.
Pulisic is in no danger of missing out on being selected for the World Cup, and the Chelsea star has already sent a warning to England, Wales and Iran who make up Group B. But the American has only made two starts for Chelsea this season, and is eager to get some momentum under his belt before heading to Qatar.
However, Potter has issued a warning to Pulisic and all other Chelsea players, saying that their personal requests to play will not factor into his team selection. The Chelsea boss has made it clear that he will pick the right team for each specific opponent, and that's final.
"You can imagine my focus is on Chelsea. I understand that all the players have ambition and want to play for different reasons, for their families, careers or World Cups,'' said Potter.
''That's all fine but it's my job to select the right team for whatever game. [I'm] not saying I am right all the time, I am not, but somebody has got to make the call.
"With Christian I would say he has been fantastic around the place, been really good with team mates, contributed against Wolves. He is pushing for a place, pushing for a start. Things change quickly in football and he needs to be ready."
Pulisic has been captaining the USMNT as of late, and played a key role as they qualified for the competition. But they've since been knocked off their perch as the best North American side, as it was Canada that finished top of their qualifying group.
Mexico will also be hoping for a successful tournament this winter, as they too haven't been as dangerous as they once were. But the USMNT will be confident heading into Qatar, as they seem to consistently thwart England in the competition.
The two occasions that the USMNT and England have met in the group stages, the three lions are yet to record a single victory. Gareth Southgate will be hoping it's third time lucky to avoid any blushes.
