Mauricio Pochettino reveals when Christopher Nkunku could make Chelsea comeback from injury

Mauricio Pochettino has ruled both Christopher Nkunku and Levi Colwill out of this evening's match between Chelsea and Tottenham.

Nkunku has been sidelined since February with a hamstring injury but is closing in on making his return to action. The 26-year-old has played just 351 minutes of competitive football – in all competitions – since moving from RB Leipzig to the Blues last summer for an estimated £52million.

Meanwhile, Colwill has been missing for two months with a toe injury. While both Colwill and Nkunku have been training in recent days, the London derby against Tottenham tonight (Thursday) comes just too soon for the duo.

"They were training today normally. We prepared for the game tomorrow, we were doing some set-pieces, tactical work and meetings," Pochettino said on Wednesday afternoon. "They are nearly [there] but they are on the line, but they still have not crossed the line. Maybe for Sunday against West Ham, maybe they will be ready. We hope."

Another player that is ruled out of the meeting with Spurs is Thiago Silva. The 39-year-old limped off in the draw with Aston Villa at the weekend and then a few days later, he announced his decision to leave the club at the end of the season – ending his four-year association with the Blues.

With someone of such experience and pedigree leaving when the campaign concludes, is that a concern for Pochettino with his young squad?

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"I think the good thing after 10 months here is we are part of the process and the leaders of the process to help the players," the Chelsea head coach replied. "Today, because I think it is not only us, it is too many clubs, who are in this situation. It is true that over the years it is more difficult to find these type of players, like Thiago.

"We are talking about a 39-year-old. It is not easy to find this profile of player. I think it is about the way we can help as a coaching staff. We are helping and for sure they are going to be better and more mature next season."