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Thomas Tuchel defends his decision to drop Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku for crucial clash with Liverpool, as he explains his star's controversial interview created 'too much noise so close to the match'

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel revealed he took the decision to withdraw Romelu Lukaku, after the striker's midweek comments had created too much of a distraction.

The Belgian striker was dropped from the Blues squad to face Liverpool in a potential title race decider on Sunday following his inflammatory interview with Sky Sport Italia.

The 28-year-old announced he was unhappy with his role in Tuchel's system at Stamford Bridge and stated that he would like to return to Inter Milan in the near future.

Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku was dropped from the squad to face Liverpool on Sunday
Manager Thomas Tuchel (above) has explained his decision to drop Romelu Lukaku

Lukaku's comments lead to the Blues boss's decision against calling on him for the crunch clash against Liverpool.