Chelsea explain reason why Jadon Sancho is not in squad for Newcastle clash

Chelsea have confirmed Jadon Sancho is not in their squad at Newcastle due to illness.

Sancho was a surprise omission from the squad when Enzo Maresca named his side for Wednesday’s Carabao Cup fourth-round tie at St James’ Park.

The on-loan winger did not feature in the Premier League win over Newcastle on Sunday or the Conference League win in Panathinaikos last week.

Sancho is not available to face Manchester United on Sunday as part of the terms of his loan deal.

Explaining why Sancho was not in the squad against Newcastle, Chelsea confirmed ahead of kick-off: “Jadon Sancho misses tonight’s Carabao Cup tie in Newcastle due to illness.”

Sancho made an encouraging start to life at Chelsea after moving to Stamford Bridge on deadline day in the summer.

But he has not featured since being hooked at half-time in the 2-1 defeat at Liverpool on October 20.

Enzo Maresca made 11 changes at St James’ Park from the Chelsea team that beat Newcastle 2-1 in the Premier League on Sunday.

Enzo Fernandez was named captain, with Filip Jorgensen in goal.

Cole Palmer was named on the bench.