Djordje Petrovic learns Chelsea goalkeeping fate amid ‘very positive’ Robert Sanchez injury update

Djordje Petrovic has impressed since being drafted into the Chelsea side following Robert Sanchez’s knee injury.

The 24-year-old has featured for Chelsea eight times this season in all competitions after Sanchez was forced off in the closing stages of their 2-0 defeat to Everton prior to Christmas.

Petrovic has earned plaudits from Mauricio Pochettino for his application in Sanchez’s absence. He told reporters earlier this month: “I think he’s been really impressive because to come from the MLS and perform the way he is performing, we are so happy, so pleased,’ said our head coach.

“He’s a really nice person and a very good professional. He’s showing that he can cope with the pressure of playing for Chelsea because it’s never easy when you arrive from a different league and you are so young, to take the responsibility in the way that he did while performing and behaving.

“The most important thing that sometimes people don’t recognise is how he behaves. He behaved the same on the first day he arrived as he does today after playing a few games in the Premier League and that is really important, to be consistent in his behaviour. That is why I am so pleased for him, because he deserves it.”

He will continue to play in between the sticks under Pochettino for the time being whilst Sanchez is out, however whether he will retain his place when the Spaniard returns remains unclear.

Pochettino was asked ahead of their Premier League clash against Fulham about Sanchez’s current status having confirmed scans took place and that they were awaiting the results.

“Yes, we are so happy because the evolution is very good,” responded Pochettino on Sanchez.

“Today (Friday) he was on the pitch running. In the next few days, he is going to do some running to see how his knee reacts. But it is a very good and positive evolution.”

Chelsea will welcome Ben Chilwell and Benoit Badiashile back into the matchday squad against Fulham, while a late decision will be made over Carney Chukwuemeka’s availability.