Premier League Rumors: Chelsea Freezes Pulisic, Manchester United Match Could Mark Return

Chelsea F.C. settled for a tie with Leicester City, 2-2, recently without midfielder Christian Pulisic. It appears the 21-year-old is not yet ready for action despite posting on social media that he is ready to play.

Pulisic posted a picture on his Instagram account, showing he was running and ready. However, Chelsea coach Frank Lampard seemingly did not want to risk it. He had previously mentioned that the United States men's national team captain will be ready by mid-February. Apparently, he plans to stick by that announcement.

“Christian Pulisic is likely to remain unavailable with the thigh injury that has kept him out since New Year’s Day,” in a statement from the Chelsea website.

In a way, the cautious approach of Lampard is understandable. He wants Pulisic to be 100 percent healthy like the rest of the team. As of this writing, the 5-foot-7 midfielder has missed four weeks due to an adductor injury.

Also, it would be best to note that the additional rest could be best for Pulisic. Chelsea will have a 16-day break after their game against Leicester. They host Manchester United on Feb. 17, with Pulisic likely to be ready by then. Considering the knocks he has had this season, that could work to the team's benefit.

Looking ahead, the Blues were unable to make key personnel changes during the January transfer window. And it appears the 41-year-old coach is a bit disappointed they were unable to add players to improve their campaign. Among the players linked to Chelsea included Edinson Cavani, Dries Mertens, and Olivier Giroud. In all, they needed another body to aid Tammy Abraham to produce goals.

With teams like Manchester United, Sheffield United and Tottenham signing new players, Lampard believes that they have now become underdogs, Goal reported.

"Now what remains to be seen will be seen and from my view—and this is not to talk down ourselves because we're six points clear in fourth—now we become probably the underdogs and the outsiders to some point because the teams around us have strengthened. It's a fact," Lampard said.

A Pulisic return could shed some pressure of Lampard and the Blues. That could finally materialize on Feb. 17. Chelsea may have it work cut out for them. All they can do now is play their best against other teams who boosted their chances through key acquisitions.