For omitting Romelu Lukaku from his squad to face Liverpool last weekend, despite the striker’s controversial interview, former Arsenal star, Paul Merson has slammed Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel.
During an interview with Sky in Italy, Lukaku disclosed that he was sad with his role at the club and is eyeing a return to Inter Milan in the near future.
The 28-year-old has since apologised publicly for his comments and is set to face Tottenham in the Carabao Cup semi-finals on Wednesday.
However, Merson was unimpressed with Tuchel’s decision to drop Lukaku for the 2-2 draw with Liverpool.
When asked if the way the Lukaku situation was handled was a victory for Tuchel, Merson said: “No, not really. Why would it be a victory?
“Chelsea had to beat Liverpool to have any chance of winning the Premier League. They had to beat Liverpool and then Manchester City in their next game to have any chance, but for me, he’s chopped his nose off to spite his face.
“Lukaku is going to play for Chelsea again so why not play him against Liverpool?
“If he doesn’t play well, the Chelsea fans will soon let him know. I’d have gone that way, personally.
“Tuchel should have played him against Liverpool. It was the biggest game of the season for Chelsea.”