Jadon Sancho Chelsea absence explained as Enzo Maresca makes shock Newcastle decision

Jadon Sancho has been ruled out of Chelsea's clash against Newcastle United due to illness, football.london understands. The 24-year-old winger, who joined the Blues on loan from Manchester United late into the summer transfer window, has enjoyed a great start to life at Stamford Bridge.

Speaking to reporters ahead of Chelsea's clash against Eddie Howe's side in the Carabao Cup round of 16 on Wednesday night, Enzo Maresca was quizzed on Sancho's recent absence, having missed the last two games. The Italian said: "Jadon is doing well since he arrived with us.

"For sure, he cannot maintain the same level all season because the amount of games is huge. So the last two games he didn't play, not for any different reason, but just for a tactical and technical decision - no more than that.

"For sure, because of the amount of games, he is going to play many games and the only thing he has to do is to continue to work hard. When we give him the chance, take it."

Then, on his team selection, Maresca added: "I'm always worried. I'm always concerned about the other team. Tomorrow will be the same. We just played two days ago and we know how good they are.

"Away, they are probably even more because of the environment. We have a session today, we will see in today's session and then make a decision tomorrow."

READ MORE: Forgotten Chelsea star tipped to join West Ham as Tottenham unlock 'next Lampard and Drogba'

READ MORE: Man City learn best and worst case scenario as Premier League clubs await charges verdict

Sancho has featured five times for Chelsea in the Premier League this season, providing three assists – the first of which coming on his debut. Shortly after coming on, Sancho teed up Christopher Nkunku, who fired the west Londoners ahead against Bournemouth in stoppage time at the Vitality Stadium.

Chelsea signed Sancho from United on a season-long loan, which, football.london understands, includes an obligation-to-buy. The Blues were long admirers of the Englishman, who established himself as one of the most exciting young players in Europe during his time in the Manchester City youth setup.

He's enjoyed a brilliant start to life back in London, and his strong feelings for the club come as no surprise. In an interview with the official Chelsea website, Sancho said: "London is where I grew up and I’m happy to be back.

"Chelsea is iconic. My idols growing up were Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard and now I have the opportunity to play for this club like them. It’s a great feeling."

football.london Chelsea WhatsApp channel

Want to keep up to date with the breaking and important Chelsea stories whilst on the move? Well now you can!

Click this link to follow the football.london Chelsea WhatsApp channel, where you'll be kept up to date on the latest Blues news wherever you are.

Just remember to turn on the notifications once you've followed, and you won't miss a beat!