Remy tipped to return and Pato is put on fitness regime

Loic Remy is expected to be available for Chelsea’s home match against Newcastle a week on Saturday.

The French striker, who previously spent a season on loan at Newcastle and was tipped to return there during the recent transfer window, has been nursing a calf problem.

Blues boss Guus Hiddink believes Remy will soon be back in the squad – and the Dutchman has explained that new signing Alexandre Pato has been placed on a special training regime in order to improve his fitness.

Former AC Milan forward Pato secured a pre-deadline loan move to Chelsea from Brazilian club Corinthians but is not considered fit enough to play.

“Remy will be involved next week,” Hiddink explained.

“Pato is, let’s say, in pre-season, and we have made a training plan which he is doing at least once a day – mostly twice a day.

“It means he is getting his fitness but not full fitness. He needs to be fine-tuned, but we’ve made a good plan.

“He will not be involved in the upcoming games. We need him to get fit, not getting injured in this tough league.”

Meanwhile, Pedro will have a fitness test before Chelsea’s game against Manchester United on Sunday.