Guus Hiddink has made it clear that signing Alexandre Pato is not at all a gamble, even though the Dutch manager still in the dark about the Brazilian’s fitness.
Chelsea turned their sight to the former AC Milan striker to solve the persistent striker problems and have completed a loan deal for the rest of the season after his work permit hearing on Friday.
The 26-year-old Brazilian hasn’t been able to play since November but Hiddink says: “It will take him a while. He cannot yet be fully fit because Corinthians were only in (pre-season) preparations.
“We will test him physically in training and will see when he is available.
“”It’s not a gamble. Coming on loan makes it possible to have a good view of him, whether he’s able to adapt to the high demands of the club and the league.
“We’ll give him all the support in this, but it’s up to him.”
Hiddink could have used Pato if he was fit enough to make it to the first eleven as Diego Costa’s latest injury setback a huge concern up front. However, there are several reports claiming that Costa is fit to play in this weekend’s Cup fixture and some are also suggesting Pato can still make his debut for Chelsea on Sunday.
Loic Remy is right now out with a calf injury and might leave the club before Monday’s transfer window deadline as Newcastle and Leicester are interested in signing the Frenchman.
Another injured absentee, loan flop Falcao still remains no nearer a return.
And with Patrick Bamford close to moving out on loan, Norwich most likely destination for him, Guus Hiddink will have to rely on youngsters like Bertrand Traore to support Diego Costa, who has bagged six goals in his last six appearances, until Pato regains full fitness to hit the ground running.
Hiddink, whose team will face MK Dons in the FA Cup fourth round away fixture on Sunday, also said: “I said we are short of strikers, of available strikers. Not having Falcao and Remy regularly.
“That’s why I was a bit concerned about Diego. He is delivering beyond the expectations and that’s very good for us, for the club, for him.
“It might be a big burden on him, though, which is why I’m saying: ‘Hey guys, it’s not just down to Diego to deliver the goals. You have to chip in as well.’”