Graham Potter has been handed a huge injury boost ahead of Chelsea's clash with Tottenham — one which could significantly increase the chances of the 47-year-old keeping his job. The Blues boss has been subject to growing pressure over his position at Stamford Bridge, with just one win under his belt after 10 games across all competitions.
The west Londoners head into the tie ten points adrift of fourth-placed Spurs. Chelsea have been in desperate need of a catalyst to rejuvenate their performances and Potter may have finally received the impetus he has been looking for.
N'Golo Kante, who sees his contract with the Blues expire at the end of the season, is yet to feature under the former Brighton head coach after suffering a hamstring injury against Tottenham in August. The 31-year-old has been doing some light training with the rest of the first-team squad recently, football.london understands.
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It's said that he's targeting a return to action at the start of March. However, it seems that his inclusion on a matchday could be sooner rather than later following the latest update on his recovery.
Speaking on the London is Blue podcast, Matt Law of The Telegraph claimed that he's been told Kante looks 'in great shape'. He said: "There’s a lot of excitement around the fitness he’s going to come back with. They’re taken it super lowly and have been very careful with his return."
Then, speaking to the press, Potter revealed that Kante and Christian Pulisic will be integrated further into Chelsea training next week. The duo remain unavailable to face Spurs alongside Cesar Azpilicueta, who suffered a concussion against Southampton.
"He's [Azpilicueta] as ok as can be when you've had that concussion," the Blues boss said. "He won't be ready for the weekend as we have to go through the protocols, but he's doing well.
"We've had a good week's training, everyone is available pretty much apart from N'Golo [Kante] and Christian Pulsiic. They are making progress, joining the warm-ups, and they will be more integrated next week. So that is good."
With Kante set to be back in action soon, the France international could be the lifeline that Potter needs to fend off any looming doubt which may hang over his position as Chelsea boss.
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