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Frank Lampard confirms Chelsea fitness blow ahead of Watford clash

Alexandre Lacazette of Arsenal holds off Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea during the Carabao Cup Semi-Final Second Leg at Emirates Stadium on January 24...
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There were hopes that Antonio Rudiger would be fit to feature for Chelsea this weekend, but he looks set to miss out again.

Frank Lampard of Chelsea during the Carabao Cup Round of 16 match between Chelsea FC and Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on October 30, 2019 in London, England.

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has confirmed to Football London that Antonio Rudiger is not fit enough to play tomorrow.

Rudiger had suggested to The Sun earlier in the week that he was ready to play for Chelsea.

But when asked about the centre-back’s comments at his latest press conference, Lampard said that they weren’t entirely correct.

“No, he’s not fit,” Lampard said. “There was a miscommunication. He’s seeing a consultant on Monday over an ongoing pelvic issue.

“We’ll have to wait for the consultant appointment to see how long he’ll be out. Himself and N’Golo carried over injuries from last season and it’s been a domino effect.

“The players will be frustrated. Disappointing for me because I want to select them but it brings opportunities for other players.”

Rudiger’s continued absence at Chelsea is a blow, but it has allowed others the chance to step up.

Both Kurt Zouma and Fikayo Tomori have covered well for Rudiger during his absence.

Lucas Moura of Tottenham Hotspur is challenged by Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea during the Carabao Cup Semi-Final Second Leg match between Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on...

The German defender is likely to come back into Chelsea’s team when he is fully fit though, as he is arguably the most reliable centre-back available to Lampard.

Chelsea take on Watford this weekend, and even without Rudiger they head into the game as heavy favourites to pick up the three points, with the Hornets currently stuck at the bottom of the Premier League table.