Kante and Ziyech fit but Pulisic out after testing positive for Covid

N’Golo Kante and Hakim Ziyech look likely to feature for Chelsea at Arsenal along with Romelu Lukaku, but Christian Pulisic is unavailable after testing positive for Covid-19.

Both Kante and Ziyech trained on Friday and boss Thomas Tuchel is optimistic that both players will be available for Sunday’s derby at the Emirates Stadium.

Ziyech’s shoulder injury not being as serious as was initially feared is a big boost for Chelsea, who have been managing Kante’s fitness in light of his injury problems during recent seasons.

“Hakim and N’Golo were both in training today,” Tuchel revealed.

“They had absolutely no problems. We need to have a more intense, physical training session tomorrow with them and decide after tomorrow’s training session.

“But, right now, it seems very positive that both can be in the squad for Sunday.

“Christian needs to follow the (self-isolation) protocols so is not in training and is not available for the game.”

Lukaku is set to be involved following the striker’s recent return for a second spell at Chelsea.

“This week’s training was a heavy load for him. We are hoping that he is on the pitch for Sunday, and things look like it,” Tuchel said.