Premier League giants Chelsea have pushed back the return date for several of their fringe players.

The Blues were expecting certain squad members to return for pre-season training this week.

However, The Mail states that players who are no longer in the club's plans can stay away for the moment.

The likes of Romelu Lukaku, Hakim Ziyech and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang do not have to report to training until Monday.

The club hopes that all of them will be sold by that date, ensuring there are no awkward interactions with new boss Mauricio Pochettino.

One who has departed is American star Christian Pulisic, who is joining AC Milan.