Verratti and Matuidi boost for PSG ahead of Chelsea clash

Paris Saint-Germain coach Laurent Blanc on Monday named midfielders Marco Verratti and Blaise Matuidi among his group traveling to London for Wednesday’s crunch Champions League clash at Chelsea.

Both Verratti and Matuidi are fighting for fitness after suffering a groin injury and thigh problem respectively.

Verratti earlier posted a photo of himself on Instagram wearing PSG’s black jersey for big European matches.

But it is uncertain whether either will play.

After last Saturday’s goalless Ligue 1 draw at Montpellier, Blanc refused to be tied down on whether either would be present.

“Blaise is very good, he has a willingness and ability to overcome the pain which is important. You can imagine the desire he has (to play this match),” said Blanc

Concerning Verratti, the PSG coach said: “How much time will it take, a week, ten days? The inflammation has returned, unfortunately. We’re hoping to cure him as quickly as possible.”

Chelsea and PSG meet at Stamford Bridge with both sides’ seasons riding on the outcome of their Champions League last 16, second leg showdown.

SEE MORE: Schedule of Champions League games on US TV and live streaming

PSG head to London with a 2-1 lead from the first leg in Paris last month thanks to a late Edinson Cavani winner, but the tie is finely poised, with John Obi Mikel’s away goal giving Chelsea plenty of reason to believe they can progress.

With Verratti and Matuidi present in the 21-man group, Blanc will have all his players at his disposal, apart from Serge Aurier, still banished to the reserves for posting an insulting video on social medial.