Saturday’s win over Leeds offered Graham Potter some welcome respite on the injury front as Chelsea manager.
While beating a team battling relegation at home is hardly headline-grabbing, the context in which the three points were won is worth considering.
The Blues dug deep defensively and managed to score from a set-piece, two things Potter’s side have seriously struggled with of late.
Still, as has so often been a feature during the former Brighton manager’s opening few months in charge, there are a number of injury concerns. Thiago Silva, N’Golo Kante and Reece James have all missed swathes of the season so far, proving a source of huge frustration.
Here’s a look at the latest on Chelsea injuries…
Reece James
In a major boost for the Blues, England international Reece James is expected to be fit for Tuesday’s make-or-break Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund.
The defender missed the win over Leeds with a hamstring injury but took part in training on Monday before the visit of the German giants.
Possible return date: Tuesday March 7 2023 vs Borussia Dortmund
Mason Mount
The midfielder is suspended for the Dortmund game anyway but did not take part in training at Cobham after sitting out Saturday’s victory with an abdominal problem.
Potential return date: Saturday March 11 2023 vs Leicester City
Cesar Azpilicueta
Potter has confirmed Chelsea’s captain is fine after suffering a concussion during the loss to Southampton and the club are now following the relevant protocols.
Potential return date: Saturday March 11 2023 vs Leicester City
N’Golo Kante
While the Frenchman will likely be eased back into action after so many injury problems over the past year, Kante was back in training at Cobham as he closes in on a long-awaited return.
Potter said on Tuesday he is “excited” for Kante’s comeback but detailed the difficulties in reintegrating him amid a crunch run of games.
Potential return date: March 2023
Christian Pulisic
Like Kante, American forward Pulisic was put through his paces with the rest of the squad on Monday. He is expected to be in the squad against Dortmund.
Possible return date: Tuesday March 7 2023 vs Borussia Dortmund
Edouard Mendy
The goalkeeper went under the knife following a fractured finger in January but is expected to return soon.
Potential return date: March 2023
Thiago Silva
Key defender Silva was ruled out for around six weeks after picking up a knee injury during the recent loss away at rivals Tottenham.
Potential return date: April 2023
Armando Broja
The forward’s promising first season as a Chelsea first-team player was ended in December following an ACL injury.
