Tuchel accepts a point, explains Abraham absence and gives penalty verdict

Tammy Abraham was not in the 18 today

‘It was about judging all the alternatives we had. We opted for Oli to begin, with Timo on the bench. We had Kai who can play as a number nine. Things are a bit difficult for him, not as easy as they should be, it’s not his fault and he will get our full support, it’s just a decision.

‘He has to do what he does, train well and be in a good mood, and accept he’s a striker for Chelsea so the competition is almost the highest competition. This is what you sign up for, these moments arrive. There is no other answer to accept it and be there tomorrow to fight for his place. I’m sure he will do it.

‘We have a strong squad. We have only Thiago Silva injured. It means you have to take hard decisions. You can only nominate 18 players. It was also a hard decision for Billy Gilmour, because he played very well in the Cup, and has been very strong in training.’

Tuchel gave his verdict on the decision not to award Man United a first-half spot-kick

‘For me it was no penalty. I was surprised and I’m still surprised [at the reaction]. I didn’t see it live where the penalty should come from, and when we checked on the pictures we have I couldn’t see any incident that should qualify as a penalty. Until now I don’t know why it should be a penalty.’

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