Soccer-Nkunku still out for Chelsea, says Pochettino

Soccer Football - Premier League - Chelsea v Manchester City - Stamford Bridge, London, Britain - November 12, 2023 Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino reacts after the match Action Images via Reuters/John Sibley/ File photo

(Reuters) - Christopher Nkunku is close to recovery from the knee injury which has sidelined the French forward since before the start of the season, but will not be in Chelsea's squad to face Newcastle United, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday.

Nkunku, who signed from RB Leipzig in July, needed surgery for a knee injury he suffered in a pre-season friendly, but has recently returned to training and had hoped to be involved after the international break.