Chelsea news: Medical Insider issues Christian Pulisic claim as ‘organ damage’ mooted
Chelsea attacker Christian Pulisic will “absolutely” be fit to play for the USA against the Netherlands in their round of 16 World Cup game on Sunday (4 December).
That is the view of medical expert Ben Dinnery, who runs the Premier Injuries site and has a background in injury and data analysis, speaking exclusively to Football Insider.
Pulisic was taken off at halftime after scoring the USA’s goal in their 1-0 win over Iran on Tuesday (29 November) which secured their progression to the knockout rounds.
The USMNT released a statement the same day confirming he had a “pelvic contusion” after being taken to hospital following a clash with the Iran goalkeeper.
Asked whether it was realistic for Pulisic to expect to play against the Netherlands, Dinnery told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley: “Yes, absolutely.
“Initially, it was more of a precautionary measure when he was referred to the hospital. He felt a little bit of dizziness and blood-enforced trauma following that coming together with the Iran goalkeeper.
“The USMNT official statement said it was a pelvic contusion. There could have been more sinister things going on there, maybe organ damage but he’s been cleared of all of that.
“Yes, undoubtedly it was very painful at the time and it was difficult to continue.
“But with a couple of days rest, a little bit of treatment and maybe some padding in and around that area, I fully expect him to be involved in that US squad this weekend.”
The USA have not reached further than the round of 16 at a World Cup since the inaugural competition in 1930.
Pulisic will win his 56th cap if he features against the Netherlands.
In other news, Chelsea are opening preliminary talks to sign a £25million-valued Premier League star.