Chelsea’s Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed that left-back Ben Chilwell will return from injury against Fulham on Saturday.
Chilwell, Chelsea’s vice-captain, has not played since sustaining a hamstring injury in September and is yet to play a game with the Infinite Athlete sponsorship on the front of the club’s shirts.
It’s been a long road to rehabilitation, but Pochettino announced on Friday that Chilwell, along with centre-back Benoit Badiashile, who has missed three games due to a muscular ailment, is now back in contention.
“Good news about Chilwell and Ben [Badiashile],” Pochettino said during his press conference. “Chilly and Benoit, I believe they will be part of the squad for tomorrow. When you recover a player, it is critical that they be involved.
Pochettino also revealed Carney Chukwuemeka’s potential comeback. The 20-year-old has been out since the second game of the season, and his absence has become something of a mystery, with few updates on what initially appeared to be a minor issue.
Chukwuemeka’s knee injury turned out to be considerably more serious than thought, forcing the young midfielder to concentrate on his running style and body mechanics to avoid further problems.
Pochettino also mentioned defender Trevoh Chalobah, who was hurt during preseason and has not been seen since. The 24-year-old, who has been linked with a move this month, has resumed light training as he prepares to return to Chelsea.
“Trevoh Chalobah has started to work with the group,” the boss revealed. “We have to assess day by day to determine if he can assist us. But he is doing fine. He’s currently training with the group.
“I think it’s wonderful news for players like Chalobah, Chilwell, Badiashile, and Chukwuemeka. They are so close to rejoining the squad and contributing to its success.”
