Tuchel wary of mounting PSG injury problems
Thomas Meunier and Eric Choupo-Moting join Edinson Cavani and Neymar on the sidelines for Paris Saint-Germain's clash with Saint-Etienne.
Thomas Tuchel offered no update on the condition of Neymar or Edinson Cavani ahead of Paris Saint-Germain's clash with Saint-Etienne but confirmed Thomas Meunier and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting would miss the game amid mounting injury problems.
Right-back Meunier missed PSG's 2-0 victory over Manchester United in the Champions League following a head injury he sustained against Bordeaux three days earlier, and Tuchel said Cameroon international Choupo-Moting has been taken ill.
With Cavani sidelined by a hip injury and Neymar recovering from a damaged metatarsal, Tuchel said he is keeping a close eye on Marco Verratti and Presnel Kimpembe, who have both been dogged by injuries in recent weeks.
"Thomas Meunier will not be available tomorrow, nor Choupo-Moting because of illness," Tuchel told reporters.
"The other players will be present but we need to be attentive to the old injuries of Verratti and Kimpembe.
"There is no news for Cavani and Neymar."
@TTuchelofficial : "@ThomMills will not be available tomorrow, Choupo neither, because of illness. The other players will be present. " #PSGlivepic.twitter.com/GlNA8Vg9R7— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) February 16, 2019
Tuchel was in upbeat mood despite the fitness concerns, and he picked out Kimpembe for praise along with Brazilian midfielder Marquinhos who deputised in midfield at Old Trafford.
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Full-backs Thilo Kehrer and Juan Bernat were also credited for their part in extending the champions winning run to three consecutive matches in all competitions.
"Thilo Kehrer and Juan Bernat are doing a great job," said Tuchel. "They deserve to play.
"Presnel Kimpembe has everything to become one of the best defenders in Europe.
"Marquinhos is very good in the middle, as in defence. He is an incredible player who must and always wants to improve.
"I am happy that we are able to play as a team. Whether in the Champions League or Ligue 1."