Former Chelsea defender Frank Lebouef firmly believes that Thiago Silva being left out of the starting lineup for Wednesday night’s match against Aston Villa was not related to his wife’s recent controversial comments on social media.

Thiago Silva’s spouse stirred controversy after suggesting Chelsea might need a new manager following a disappointing 4-2 loss at home to Wolves.

Belle Silva later apologized after Pochettino disclosed he had held significant discussions with the 39-year-old, who seems likely to depart Stamford Bridge come summer.

Leboeuf told ESPNFC: “When everything goes wrong you have a target and the biggest and easiest one is the coach.

“Players are starting to criticse the coach thinking that the tactics aren’t good and the choices aren’t good but you have to take care of everything people are saying.

“Did Thiago Silva’s wife really say that or not? I’m not sure about that.

“Thiago Silva has already been on the bench and not because of his wife’s comments. It was because it was a tactic and because he’s 39 and needs a rest.

“It was more that. When he came on I saw Pochettino putting his hand on his shoulder and they were talking to each other I didn’t see a tension between them.”