Green: Hayes will still be involved at Chelsea ‘Health most important thing’

Emma Hayes will still be involved with Chelsea, says assistant manager Paul Green, after an emergency hysterectomy saw her step back from her full managerial role.

Hayes announced on Thursday she would be away from the day-to-day running of the team after her surgery. She expects to make a full recovery, although did not specify when she might return to the dugout.

In the interim, Green will be joined by assistant manager Denise Reddy and the Chelsea backroom staff in managing the squad. With Hayes’ surgery taking place during the recent international break, it has given them time to organise how they will operate in the head coach’s absence.

Taking on the pre-match press duties on Friday, Green revealed Hayes will still be monitoring the team from home as she recovers.

“We were aware of it just before the international break so that gave the opportunity to get set up,” Green said.