Chelsea recall £23m star from France Olympics team just days before tournament kicks off in blow to Thierry Henry
CHELSEA have recalled Lesley Ugochukwu from France’s Olympic team just days before the tournament.
The host nation begin their campaign against the USA in Marseille on Wednesday.
Thierry Henry’s side are also set to face Guinea and New Zealand during the group stage.
However, they will do so without Ugochukwu after the midfielder’s return to Chelsea.
A statement confirming he had been recalled read: “Lesley Ugochukwu leaves the Olympic selection.
“The midfielder is leaving the French Olympic Team this Friday, July 19, and will not be among the reserves for the Paris 2024 Olympic tournament.
“Following a request from Chelsea FC, Lesley Ugochukwu will permanently leave the French Olympic football team and will no longer be available as a reserve.
“The technical staff, who have made a request to the organisers to be able to replace him, are awaiting a response. The current group is therefore made up of twenty-one players.”
Ugochukwu had missed out on a place in the 18-man squad but was included as one of four replacements.
Replacements can play in the tournament at any time if a member of the squad gets injured.
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Chelsea had previously blocked both Malo Gusto and Benoit Badiashile from call-ups for the Olympics.
Ugochukwu returns to the Blues ahead of their pre-season USA tour, with five matches scheduled including a clash with Real Madrid.
However, the 20-year-old may still not be involved amid a potential move away from Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea are keen to loan the midfielder to another Premier League club, with three sides currently interested according to the Metro.
Ugochukwu signed from Rennes in a £23million deal last summer, penning a deal through to 2030.
He made 13 appearances before a hamstring injury in December ruled him out for six months.
Following the lay-off, Ugochukwu played twice more off the bench after returning to action in May.