ARTICLES

Chelsea handed a major boost ahead of crunch games as key duo return from injury

Published by
Varun Pai

Chelsea duo Kai Havertz and Mateo Kovacic return from injury ahead of a busy December

According to football.london, Kai Havertz and Mateo Kovacic have returned from injury ahead of a tough fixture schedule for Chelsea.

The Blues have had a slight blip in form in the past week. One draw, one defeat, and a narrow victory saw our squad depth tested to its fullest. By the end of the weekend, Thomas Tuchel had Havertz, Kovacic, N’Golo Kante, Trevoh Chalobah, and Ben Chilwell were all out with injury. Marcos Alonso was also suffering from some pain.

Kai Havertz could be fit to feature against Zenit on Wednesday despite picking limping off the pitch at half-time on the weekend. (imago Images)

However, the German boss has received a major injury boost ahead of the Champions League tie against Zenit Saint Petersburg. His fellow countryman, Havertz, has returned after limping off the pitch at half-time against West Ham United. 

The 22-year-old stands a chance to be in the squad that travels to Russia. Kovacic has also apparently returned to training, according to The Times (Subscription Required). The 27-year-old has missed the last eight games due to a hamstring injury but is in line to face Leeds United at the weekend.

Massive boost

It was clear from the last three games that our starting midfielders are incredibly important to the way we set up. Kovacic was vital to our great start to the season, and his absence surely made a difference. 

Mateo Kovacic has missed the last eight games due to a hamstring injury. (imago Images)

Ruben Loftus has had to feature in three consecutive games, and the Englishman looked tired by the time he was facing West Ham on Saturday. Jorginho also looked fatigued while Saul Niguez has not instilled a lot of confidence in the gaffer, courtesy of which the Croat’s return is timely.

Havertz, on the other hand, was vital to how we started the game against West Ham. The German played through the centre and was crucial in linking up the play. In fact, we were in the lead until he limped off the pitch. Romelu Lukaku could not produce the same intensity, indicating the importance of the 22-year-old to our system.

More Chelsea News

Tuchel will be delighted with the return of his star men. The Blues shall now be looking to top their UCL group before trying to get ahead of Man City and Liverpool in the league on the weekend.

Varun Pai

Recent Posts

“It’s not enough”- Mauricio Pochettino says Chelsea’s best-case scenario this season still won’t make it a good season

Mauricio Pochettino says Chelsea finishing fifth or sixth shouldn't be cause for celebration Mauricio Pochettino…

2 hours ago

Romano: Chelsea submit €65m package for the next big thing from Brazil; player already open to transfer

Fabrizio Romano claims Chelsea have tabled a new bid for Estevao Willian Chelsea will be…

2 hours ago

“They’re playing very, very well”- Bournemouth manager wary of Chelsea threat as both clubs look to end the season on a high

Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola is aware of the threat that Chelsea possess In the final…

3 hours ago

“It’s good for football”- Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino takes his side on the VAR debate as PL clubs vote on crucial matter

Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettinos feels VAR should be utilised wisely The future of VAR (Video…

4 hours ago

Arsenal cult hero Gael Clichy tips struggling Chelsea star to become best in his position in the Premier League next season

Mykhailo Mudryk backed to shine for Chelsea in 2024/25 Former Gunners defender Gael Clichy insists…

10 hours ago

Chelsea ready €60m offer to continue midfield spending and signing Netherlands International

Another Caicedo caper? Chelsea target Koopmeiners amidst Liverpool interest Chelsea FC are looking to sign…

11 hours ago