Lukaku set for Chelsea axe after backlash from interview

The Belgian striker has reportedly been dropped from Sunday’s crucial clash after his controversial interview.

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has dropped Romelu Lukaku from the squad to face Liverpool on Sunday evening.

Despite scoring in his last two Premier League games, Lukaku is at the center of controversy after his interview with Sky Sport Italia was broadcasted last week.

In the interview, Lukaku expressed his disappointment with his role under Tuchel at Stamford Bridge. He also announced a desire to return to Inter Milan and said he would’ve stayed had his former club offered him a new contract.

The 28-year-old’s comments have sparked displeasure amongst the Chelsea supporters, the club itself, and even Inter’s own fans.

According to The Athletic, Tuchel has now excluded him from the matchday squad for Sunday’s Premier League clash with title rivals Liverpool.

Inter Milan supporters have left a banner outside the San Siro.

“It doesn't matter who runs away in the rain. It counts who stays in the storm. Bye Romelu."

[via @marifcinter] pic.twitter.com/Xc1vq78WUM

— Absolute Chelsea (@AbsoluteChelsea) December 31, 2021

What has Tuchel said so far?

Speaking in a press conference on New Year’s Eve after the interview had aired, Tuchel said he would hold private talks with Lukaku about it before discussing it any further or making any decisions.

“We don’t like it of course because it brings noise we don’t need and it is not helpful. We don’t want to make more out of it than it actually is,” said the Blues boss.

“It’s very easy to take lines out of context, it’s very easy to shorten lines, make headlines then later realize it’s not so bad and not what he meant.

“Let’s be honest, we don’t like it, I don’t like it because it’s noise we don’t need. We need a calm environment and focus and that does not help.”