Mauricio Pochettino has said that Christopher Nkunku and Levi Colwill are “on the line” in their respective injury recoveries but won’t be fit to face Tottenham.

The Argentine must deal with a 14-strong injury list for Thursday’s latest London derby at Stamford Bridge and said he will give some “kids” a chance to play.

But the Blues also indicated on the same day that Colwill and Nkunku are both back in “full training”.

Pochettino later explained why the pair are taking part fully at Cobham but can’t play in the London derby.

“They were training,” Pochettino told reporters. "Today, normally, we prepare the game for tomorrow. We did some set-pieces, tactical work, and meetings.

“They are nearly there. They are on the line, but they don’t cross the line. We hope they will cross the line for West Ham on Sunday.

“We hope. But still, we need to wait until tomorrow, Friday and Saturday to see if they can cope with the competition. What it means on the website is that they are close and they are nearly capable.”

Thiago Silva may have played his last game for Chelsea after suffering a groin injury in the 2-2 draw with Aston Villa on Saturday. The Brazilian has just five matches in which to return to full fitness and play having announced his expected summer exit this week.

The loss of the 39-year-old will radically bring down the average age of an already young Chelsea squad, but Pochettino says he is there to ensure that new leaders emerge after Silva’s departure.

“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,” he added.

“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.”