Courtois says Lukaku’s not playing at Chelsea is ‘strange’

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has described Romelu Lukaku’s lack of game time at Chelsea as “strange” but is optimistic his Belgian compatriot will come good under Thomas Tuchel.

Lukaku has been relegated to the bench this season with Kai Havertz likely to lead the line in Wednesday’s first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals against Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge (21:00).

“I know Romelu is a really great striker. Obviously, it is a bit strange not to see him play that much lately,” Courtois said in a presser on Tuesday.

“He is a guy with an enormous quality. He finds the goal easily.”Obviously, there are other great strikers at Chelsea. I understand it is not always easy when the team is winning, obviously, the manager keeps playing the same players.”

Lukaku has managed to only start 50% of the 35 matches he has played this season, scoring 12 goals.

“But I’m sure he will get through it. Sometimes you just need a little adaptation. I had the same thing in my first season at Real Madrid, it wasn’t easy. I’m sure he will come through, ” concluded Courtois.