Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Christian Pulisic missed the 2-1 victory against Sheffield United due to personal reasons.

The American international was not in the matchday squad at Bramall Lane and asked about his absence after the game, Tuchel replied:

“Christian has some family issues to solve, and family is always first, so we decided to give him a rest.”

Tuchel was also asked about the fitness of centre-back Thiago Silva. The 36-year-old injured a thigh muscle in the 1-0 win over Tottenham on Thursday and was not included in the team yesterday.

The Brazilian is still undergoing intensive treatment on the injury and Tuchel revealed that the defender won’t be fit to face Barnsley in the FA Cup later this week. He could also miss the match versus Newcastle with a return against Southampton more realistic.

Timo Werner sustained a dead leg midway through the second half versus the Blades last night. The German had to be substituted with 15 minutes to go but the problem shouldn’t keep him out for too long. It remains to be seen when Kai Havertz will return from a knock.