Speaking ahead of his side’s visit to Norwich City on Tuesday evening, Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink revealed that striker Alexandre Pato is now fit enough to make his first appearance for the club.
The Brazilian, who has signed on loan from Corinthians until the end of the season, has not been involved with the Chelsea squad since signing in January having joined the club well short of full match fitness.
However, Hiddink has assured Chelsea fans that the striker is now in contention for a spot in the starting eleven, with Diego Costa likely to be rested ahead of the crucial Champions League clash with PSG next month.
The Blues face Norwich City and Stoke City within the next five days which could represent a chance for Pato to introduce himself to the Chelsea faithful.
He is not ready for 90 minutes but he is able to play part of the game.
He is eager and we have also a healthy competition between the strikers in a very good atmosphere. Diego is the No. 1 but the others have stepped up.
Hiddink did add, however, that Pato would need to force his way ahead of youngster Bertrand Traore in the Chelsea pecking order after the 20-year-old racked up three goals in his last three appearances.
I’m especially happy with the progress of Bertrand Traore.
Although he’s a young guy and the others might have more status, I’m not just looking at that. I’m looking also at the youngsters who are making good progress.
At the moment to be fair to everyone, the youngsters are a bit ahead. I like fair competition.
Chelsea’s forgotten man Loic Remy is also in a ‘good position to compete’ according to Chelsea’s interim boss.
Hiddink’s side can move up to 8th in the Premier League during midweek if they can overcome Norwich City and results elsewhere go their way.
