Chelsea’s credentials will be tested with the return of Premier League football just days away and they could not be much better shape after receiving a massive Reece James fitness boost.
Following an opening weekend defeat to the champions Manchester City, the Blues have found their feet under new head coach Enzo Maresca. On the road, they've been perfect in the league thus far, scoring 10 which is the most of any club across the entire division.
However, it's safe to say Sunday's visit to Anfield to take on the current Premier League leaders Liverpool will be the west London outfit's toughest away trip to date.
Having said that, despite the 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest before the international break, spirits have been high at Chelsea's Cobham training base this week as James was able to resume team training as he continues his return to full fitness after being sidelined through injury since the club's pre-season tour of the USA
Of course, it remains to be seen if the defender is handed an immediate recall but here is the latest Chelsea injury news and potential return dates as Maresca could very soon have a clean bill of health heading into a tough run of games including a double-header against Newcastle United, a showdown with Manchester United and a visit from Arsenal.
Reece James
Starting with the Chelsea captain who took part in a full first-team training session on Monday and that indicates a return to action can't be too far away.
Although, it must be remembered that James has been sidelined since pre-season and given his recent injury record it would be wise not to rush him back - especially not for a game away at Liverpool.
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) October 14, 2024
Therefore, Maresca and his medical staff can keep a close eye on the 24-year-old to see how he responds to these training session and ease him back into action before the next international break, with the Europa Conference League clash at home to Noah on November 7 a possible ideal game for his big return.
Potential return date: Thursday November 7 vs FC Noah
Omari Kellyman
With James making his return to training, it leaves summer signing Omari Kellyman as the sole senior player - as listed on the club's official website - currently out injured.
After confirming at the beginning of September that he had suffered an injury setback and could be out for another two months, the 19-year-old recently posted another update on social media revealing that he's started part of his rehabilitation phase.
Potential return date: Unknown
Carney Chukwuemeka
Illness prevented Carney Chukwuemeka from making only his second appearance of the season in the 4-2 Europa Conference League win over Gent and he wasn't included in the matchday squad for the draw with Nottingham Forest three days later.
The talented midfielder has since made a full recovery and took part in Monday's training session so it would appear he's available for selection once again.
Potential return date: Sunday October 20 vs Liverpool
Noni Madueke
After scoring Chelsea's equaliser against Nottingham Forest, Noni Madueke hobbled off towards the end, sparking concerns over his fitness.
Notably, Maresca played down any fears at the time and it turns out the Italian was right to be rather relaxed as the winger played in both of England's matches during the international break and trained at Cobham on Monday so should be available to face Liverpool.
Potential return date: Sunday October 20 vs Liverpool
Levi Colwill
Similar to Madueke, Levi Colwill did not finish Chelsea’s draw with Forest. In fact, he played much of the second half in discomfort.
As it turns out, the issue was not a serious one as the central defender played the full 90 minutes of England's shock defeat at the hands of Greece and was given the night off against Finland.
Potential return date: Sunday October 20 vs Liverpool
