Chelsea players turn on Lukaku
Cameron Smith
- 3 Jan 2022 14:45 GMT
- 3 min read
A number of Chelsea's first-team squad have expressed their disapproval of Romelu Lukaku's recent comments, and have backed Thomas Tuchel's decision to drop the Belgian striker for their clash with Liverpool.
Lukaku told Sky Italia that he wishes to return to Inter, while revealing he is "unhappy with the situation" at Chelsea, and the way Tuchel has been using him.
The comments aired last week, although the interview was conducted in early December 2021, and the forward has been met with widespread criticism from pundits, fans, and now his own team-mates.
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The Athletic have reported that Jorginho, Antonio Rudiger, N'Golo Kante, and club captain Cesar Azpilicueta are among a small group of players who revealed their displeasure at Lukaku's comments to Tuchel in a private meeting.
It's also understood that the senior players let their manager know they agreed with his decision to drop the Belgian for the game against Liverpool.
A source told The Athletic: "I was speaking to one of the players and asked him if anyone was sticking up for Lukaku. He said no. None of them can believe he’s done it."
Tuchel admitted that the comments came too close to the game, which is why he decided against selecting Lukaku in the matchday squad to face Jurgen Klopp's side. He also revealed that he would have a private meeting with the player to discuss the situation and try to resolve the issues.
What next for Lukaku?
With disapproval from his team-mates, it seems Lukaku will be left isolated at the club for the time being. He is yet to address his comments publicly, or issue an apology to Tuchel, his team-mates or the Chelsea fans.
Considering he was signed just six months ago, for a club record fee, Chelsea won't be in any rush to sell the Belgian forward, although the situation will need to be resolved as soon as possible.
It remains to be seen whether Lukaku will feature in Chelsea's midweek Carabao Cup semi-final against Tottenham.
