Pedro Neto could miss Chelsea quarter-final after death of Diogo Jota

Pedro Neto could miss Chelsea’s Club World Cup quarter-final against Palmeiras following the death of his fellow Portugal international Diogo Jota.

Liverpool forward Jota, who also played alongside Neto at Wolves, died on Thursday following a car crash in Spain.

Neto did not train following the news and manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed he will be granted compassionate leave should he want it.

The Blues face the Brazilian outfit on Friday evening (2am Saturday UK) at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Maresca said: “It’s a very sad day. 
I struggle to find words because it’s very difficult, the feeling that you have is of helplessness in this kind of situation.

“The only thing I can say is all my love to his family, the people in this moment. It’s a big tragedy for them.

“In terms of Pedro it is very sad, probably more than sad.

“It’s completely Pedro’s decision. I had a chat with Pedro and we support him. Any decision he will take is the correct one.

“It doesn’t matter if he’ll be on the pitch or not. We’ll see how he is feeling but, in any case, we’re going to support him.”

Chelsea Football Club has agreed a deal to sign teenage forward Estevao Willian from Palmeiras, with the Brazilian to officially join Chelsea next summer.