Plyum worried about Clottey fatigue

The distance from Accra, Ghana's capital to Xi'an in central China is just over 11,000 kilometres (over 7000 miles) and Berekum Chelsea's boss is worried about the fitness of his lead striker. Emmanuel Clottey has been on national assignment with the Black Stars in China since last week.

Speaking about his team's chances against Egyptian giants Ahly, the Dutch coach told SuperSport.com that fatigue would have played a role if Clottey does not perform.


"If you look at the distance that he travelled it is possible that he can be tired by the time he comes. Ghana to China is a long distance and I hope he can be okay before the game this weekend," the coach said.


The Blues will need the player to be at his sharpest against an experienced Ahly, who are leading 4-1 on aggregate. Clottey has been a consistent scorer in this campaign, with his 12 goals being the highest this year.

"Clottey is obviously a key player and we need him at his best. On the other side of things, him playing for Ghana may have increased his desire to do more this Sunday. Let's hope his body responds to the call of duty."


Meanwhile, there have been suggestions that Chelsea are slowing down from their hot form of a few months ago due to player fatigue. The former Ghana champions have been playing non-stop football for close to eighteen months with little rest, and experienced figures have been telling SuperSport.com that the stress may be the undoing of the side this weekend.


"We cannot stop him for playing for Ghana because it is also important for his development, so it is a risk all good players have to take.