Thomas Tuchel explains why Tammy Abraham was absent

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has explained the reason behind the absence of Tammy Abraham for the Premier League clash against Manchester United.

The Blues needed to beat the Red Devils to jump into the fourth spot on the table but they failed to do so after a frustrating 0-0 draw.

Abraham did not even make the matchday squad for the game and speaking after the match, Tuchel said that it was a tactical decision.

The German emphasised that it was a hard decision to leave him out alongside Billy Gilmour, given the club have a strong squad.

He told Chelseafc.com: "We have a strong squad. We have only Thiago Silva injured."

"It means you have to take hard decisions.You can only nominate 18 players.

"It was also a hard decision for Billy Gilmour, because he played very well in the Cup, and has been very strong in training."

The Blues are currently fifth in the league standings with 44 points, one behind London rivals West Ham United.

They face a tricky challenge against Liverpool at Anfield on Thursday and will need to play at their best to come up with a win.

The club are unbeaten in seven league games since Tuchel took charge in January but they have now drawn back-to-back matches.