[ WATCH TV LIVE ]
Christopher Nkunku will likely be set for a prominent role in Mauricio Pochettino's Chelsea team upon his return from injury. The France international suffered a serious knee injury in the latter stages of pre-season with it later being confirmed meniscus damage had occurred and he was set to miss several months with an operation also needed.
The Blues have significantly missed the presence of Nkunku, who scored three times in pre-season, with only five goals scored in five Premier League games - three of which came in the victory against Luton Town. That triumph remains as their only league win this season with a goalless draw against Bournemouth this past weekend following up the defeat to Nottingham Forest before the international break.
Nicolas Jackson has struggled to make a lasting impact in Nkunku's absence with the Senegal international coming under fire for his performance on Sunday. However, he may not have to carry that mantle for much longer by himself with Nkunku posting a significant injury update which hints that his recovery is thus far going to plan.
READ MORE: Christopher Nkunku drops Chelsea injury message with Mauricio Pochettino update and return boost
READ MORE: Chelsea handed 'optimistic' Moises Caicedo return date as Mauricio Pochettino plans strongest XI
On Instagram, he wrote: "In progress..[timer emoji]" alongside a set of images. Raheem Sterling and Ian Maatsen were among those to comment on his post with fellow injured star Carney Chukwuemeka appearing very excited by the prospect of the 25-year-old returning and playing alongside him. He commented, "Loadinggg [flame emoji and eyes emoji]".
Chukwuemeka has been out of action for the last month after injuring his knee in the 3-1 defeat to West Ham, just moments after scoring his first league goal for Chelsea. The former Aston Villa man is expected to return in October, with Nkunku expected back in November, however being ready to play in December is seen as far more likely.
The place of Nkunku was initially taken by Chukwuemeka, however with both now out injured, Pochettino is struggling to find a creative outlet. Cole Palmer was signed in the latter stages of the summer window from Manchester City but he is yet to make a start for his new club, while Mykhailo Mudryk was offered a chance from the off against Bournemouth.
READ MORE: Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea weigh up Ivan Toney transfer as Brentford price tag revealed
The Ukraine international showed his quality in glimpses, but Chelsea were unable to play to his strengths which led to him ultimately being subbed off for Palmer just after the hour mark. The absence of Moises Caicedo this past weekend gave Lesley Ugochukwu a chance to impress, one he appeared to take, although Chelsea's new record signing is expected to be fit to face Aston Villa this weekend.
