Mauricio Pochettino has stated that there’s no chance that Christopher Nkunku will be involved for Chelsea when they play Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

The Blues are expected to beat Michael Carrick’s men, and progress to the final after suffering a shock 1-0 defeat against them the last time out.

Pochettino will however have to rely on his other players to do so after confirming during a press conference on Monday, that Nkunku is still not ready to play after picking up a hip injury.

Pochettino said: “Nkunku is not available. It’s a shame. He’s still recovering.

“He suffered a little bit in his hip, now he’s recovering. It’s not a big issue. It’s just delayed the possibility of being available again.”

Nkunku has made just four appearances for Chelsea this season, missing the remaining matches due to injuries, including the knee issue he initially had from pre-season.