Thomas Tuchel admits Chelsea’s schedule has been “brutal” but is not thinking too far ahead.
Chelsea host Fulham on Saturday evening, before their Champions League semi-final second leg against Real Madrid.
But despite that huge game on the horizon, Tuchel insists he is focusing on one task at a time.
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He said: “Fulham is a good chance to keep our advantage in the league, nothing else.
“I know very well it is a match between two semi-finals, it is not a usual week but I am happy. It is the moment to prove to ourselves that we can focus our energy into tomorrow’s game.”
However, Tuchel did admit that it will be tough to find the right balance between the two games.
He said: “Absolutely. There is no doubt about it. We are in the middle of the race, it is not easy to switch from one competition to another but who cares?
“It is my job to find the mix, to put the players in the right mindset and to prepare for this match in a way they all understand the importance.”
Addressing the brutal schedule, Tuchel said: “It’s brutal.
“We played in France the same amount of games and we got the impression but of course the challenge and intensity of this league is different. It is another level, quite relentless.
“But it keeps you on your front foot and getting out of bed early. There is simply no time to breathe, to sit back and get too relaxed or comfortable. This is a good thing.”
Mateo Kovacic is out of the clash against Fulham, while Tuchel also confirmed Antonio Rudiger won’t make it.
Tuchel said: “No, unfortunately not. He trained but still not fully comfortable.
“Antonio Rudiger is also out. He picked up an injury in the last minute against Madrid.”
Kovacic’s absence could lead to an opportunity for Billy Gilmour.
And Tuchel said of Gilmour’s chances: “Could be tomorrow but it is not decided. N’Golo feels good, Jorginho looks good.
“We miss Kova a lot, I have even the feeling that Jorginho and N’Golo can even step up in doing everything to recover as fast as possible.
“They both looked good in training. The decision will be made later today or tomorrow morning. Billy will be in the squad tomorrow.”
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