Frank Lampard on fitness of Chelsea stars ahead of Real Madrid

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has given updates on the fitness of N’Golo Kante, Mason Mount, César Azpilicueta, and Marcus Bettinelli ahead of the Blues’ crucial UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid on Wednesday.

All four players missed Chelsea’s 1-0 Premier League defeat against Wolves on Saturday, where Matheus Nunes scored the only goal of the match. Speaking at his post-match press conference, Lampard provided the latest update on their condition.

“Kante is managing his fitness,” Lampard said. “Azpi is nearly fit, needs a little bit of fitness. Mason had a feeling in his pelvic area, the injury he has been carrying. Bettinelli has a small problem.”

Kante’s return to the team would be a significant boost for Chelsea, as the French midfielder has been instrumental in their recent success in the Champions League.

Mount, who has been one of Chelsea’s standout performers this season, has been struggling with a pelvic injury and is likely to undergo a late fitness test to determine his availability for the game.

Azpilicueta has been nursing a minor injury, but the Chelsea captain is expected to be fit for the game. Meanwhile, Bettinelli, who serves as a backup goalkeeper, has a small issue, which could keep him out of the squad.

Chelsea will face a tough test against Real Madrid, who have won the Champions League a record 14 times, including a record three times consecutively. The Blues will be hoping to improve their current form if they hope to overcome a lethal Real Madrid side.