Chelsea Starlet Dominic Solanke Ready to Take On Manchester United

Chelsea starlet Dominic Solanke is ready to lead the Blues' attack against Manchester United if called upon by manager Jose Mourinho.

Solanke became the club's youngest ever player to appear in the Champions League, aged 17 years and 37 days, when he replaced Oscar after 73 minutes in the 6-0 win over NK Maribor on Tuesday.

Chelsea suddenly find themselves with a shortage of striking options ahead of their visit to Old Trafford. Top scorer Diego Costa has not trained since returning from international duty and missed games against Crystal Palace and Maribor as he recovers from a groin injury and illness that forced the Spaniard into hospital.

Loic Remy deputised in the weekend win at Selhurst Park, but the Frenchman suffered a groin injury of his own mid-week which saw Jose Mourinho rule the striker out of the United game.

With questions over the fitness of 36-year-old Didier Drogba, Solanke says he is prepared for the possibility of featuring against Louis van Gaal's side.

"I nearly made [my debut] the other day [against Crystal Palace]. This was a lot more special at Stamford Bridge in the Champions League," Solanke said.

"It's a great bit of history, it is amazing, really. I'm just speechless."

When asked about his chances of featuring against United he said: "You have to be ready. You've got to take your opportunities when you get it."

Drogba is expected to start on Sunday but his lack of match fitness may prove a concern. The 36-year-old played 75 minutes after replacing Remy at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday and admits he may need more time having only just recovered from an injury problem of his own.

"I still need time because I didn't play for two or three months before coming back," the Ivorian said. "Then I had an injury that kept me out for a while so I need more games. But I'm training hard to get back to full fitness.

"It is up to the manager to decide who is going to start on Sunday, but if you were a player, how would you feel if they said you can play at Old Trafford? You would be happy. I am ready."