Romelu Lukaku has sent a strong warning to Arsenal that he is ‘ready’ for his first appearance as a Chelsea player this season against the Gunners.
The Belgian striker, who recently became the club’s record signing, was ruled out of the weekend’s win against Crystal Palace as he oversaw a period of self-isolation.
With that now concluded though, the former Inter Milan, Everton and Manchester United frontman could get his second debut for Chelsea as Thomas Tuchel’s men travel to the Emirates Stadium next weekend.
Despite having only scored three times in his career against the Gunners in 17 outings in all competitions, Lukaku is relishing the challenge of kicking off his second Chelsea career with a positive result.
Speaking to Chelsea’s official website, he said: “I’m ready so it’s just about getting into the team and trying to prove myself to the coaches that if I’m needed, I can play. We all have to compete throughout the week to earn our starting spot.
“For me it’s going to be a new fight but we’re all fighting for one cause – to make sure that Chelsea win! I’ll make sure that in training I give 100 per cent every day and make sure that I’m ready for each game.
“I’m happy the first one is a big game away at Arsenal so hopefully we can prepare ourselves well and get a good result.”
It remains to be seen whether Tuchel will opt to hand Lukaku his first outing of the season considering the emphatic 3-0 victory against Patrick Vieira’s Crystal Palace.
Timo Werner led the line against the Eagles at Stamford Bridge but did not manage to get on the scoresheet.
The German has netted just six Premier League goals in 36 appearances having last found the net in the Blues 1-0 success against West Ham United at the start of April.
