Thomas Tuchel has revealed that Jorginho and N'Golo Kante are in contention to return for Chelsea in time to face Leeds United, but stopped short of saying either would definitely make the trip.
Jorginho returned to training on Monday morning at Cobham after players had also been called into training on Sunday rather than being provided with the usual day off following Saturday's draw against Wolves. The Italian midfielder missed the match against Bruno Lage's side after needing to be substituted against Everton at Goodison Park when he picked up an injury.
Kante last started for the Blues against Manchester United at Old Trafford but picked up an injury during the draw and has been unable to make a squad since. However, Chelsea's German coach highlighted there would be an opportunity he could make the trip north.
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Tuchel said: "We are fighting for Jorginho and fighting for N'Golo for tomorrow but it will be close but I don't know if we make it."
The Blues boss further said of his side's plans to face Leeds, that the training session held in the aftermath of conceding two late goals against Wolves, was not a punishment but instead to outline what will happen in the days ahead and to bring the team together.
Tuchel said: "We planned a free day but after the disappointment, it was not like to punish them. It was not the moment for a free day. It was better to go and talk about it. We did very light training, spent time together discussing things. A lot of players supported the Under-23s on the other pitch and that was nice to see."
Chelsea head to Elland Road in search of their first Premier League win since the defeat of West Ham at Stamford Bridge, having recorded just two wins in the league since returning from the interntional break and eight points in seven matches. The match against Leeds provides the Blues with the opportunity to come close to securing their Champions League fate before the North London Derby takes place on Thursday night.
