Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger has declared himself fit and available for selection for this weekend’s game against Watford.
The German international has not played since injuring his groin in the 5-2 win over Wolves last month but after a week of training without any setbacks, the centre-back says he is now raring to go:
“It is very long now [his absence]. Even with my cruciate ligament rupture, I was not out for so long. I’m itching [to play] but very patient.”
Supporters on Twitter are happy that Rudiger is now ready to play but they believe he will have a fight on his hands to become a regular starter:
Good news
— Ifiok David (MNIM)?️ (@ifi_david) November 1, 2019
Finally the wait is over now.?
— Darpit Kunder (@darpit_kunder) November 1, 2019
He needs to fight for that spot now
— AJ (@AJCFC92) November 1, 2019
Good boost for my CFC
— Benjazy (@NwekeBenjazy) November 1, 2019
I hope his 100% fit and cleared to play, not like last time when he started and got injured. Busy schedule is fast approaching
— Ankit Baria (@ItsAnkitBaria) November 1, 2019
Hope he plays against ajax
— Ayoola tolulope (@ayoola_tolu) November 1, 2019
Well we can’t break up zouma and tomori yet because them two have been great. Zouma since his tough start has really stepped up and is very impressive now imo. That’s what training with higher quality players do. You learn and he’s learnt quick
— kylepadan (@kylepadan1) November 1, 2019
Good to see him back, he is a real fighter…
— abulhushm841 (@abulhushm8411) November 1, 2019
The guy would have to fight for his place won't be as easy as everyone thought…
— Timilehin (@t_skoolboy) November 1, 2019
Best news after quite long
— Nyongesa M Victor (@Nyongesirvic01) November 1, 2019
Kurt Zouma and Fikayo Tomori’s form means manager Frank Lampard doesn’t have to rush Rudiger back into the side. The German had a long term knee injury before making his comeback last month but he played just 45 minutes before picking up another injury.
The 26-year-old may not start against Watford tomorrow, but he could be in line for a return to action against Ajax in the Champions League next week.