Chelsea boss Potter talks up Sterling ahead of Borussia Dortmund clash

Reece James and Christian Pulisic could return as Chelsea look to overturn a one-goal deficit in their Champions League last-16 tie against Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday.

Defender Thiago Silva remains injured and midfielder Mason Mount is suspended after being booked in Germany.

To advance, Graham Potter’s side will have to score two goals in a match for the first time since 27 December.

Chelsea also come into the contest having been knocked out of both domestic cups and are 10th in the Premier League, which leaves the Champions League as their only realistic opportunity to win a trophy this season.

“We want to make sure it’s tough for Dortmund away from home in the Champions League – and we need our supporters for that,” Potter said.

“It’s a big game, an exciting game to go to the last eight – it will be a special night at Stamford Bridge.

“We’ve had some games where we could have scored more than one and we need that performance tomorrow night. We’re playing against a top team, a team that is in a good place with the wins they’ve had.”

Although the game comes too soon for midfielder N’Golo Kante, who is now back in training after a long-term injury, Potter is hopeful Raheem Sterling will provide some nous and cutting edge to their forward play.

While the England forward has not scored since 1 January, he remains the club’s top scorer this term with six goals in all competitions and scored 24 goals in 67 Champions League games for former club Manchester City.

“His goalscoring record in the Champions League speaks for itself,” added Potter.

“He’s a proven campaigner in that competition. We’re delighted with that, we’re looking forward to having him on the pitch on Tuesday, hopefully enjoying his football.”

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