Chelsea star Benoit Badiashile reacts after scoring in his first match after returning from injury
When the final whistle signalled the end of Chelsea’s clash against Blackburn Rovers in the EFL Cup, there was one man on the pitch who was happier than the rest. A broad smile ran across his face. After a whopping 172 days on the sidelines, Benoit Badiashile stood with his head tall at Stamford Bridge. He had scored the opening goal for the Blues and was rock solid in the defense.
In the post-match interview covered by Chelsea’s official website, defender Badiashile admitted it has been a “difficult period” for him, signalling the time he spent outside the pitch after he sustained a groin injury in training in May.
Benoit Badiashile had been sidelined for close to six months with a groin problem before finally making his comeback on Wednesday. The French centre-back immediately made his presence felt, scoring Chelsea’s opener in their 2-0 Carabao Cup victory.
Speaking after the game, Badiashile opened up on the frustrations of his lengthy absence.
‘It has been a difficult period for me because I’ve not been on the pitch, but I’m very happy to now be back with the team.’
After months of diligent rehabilitation work, Badiashile was clearly ecstatic to be back doing what he does best. His composed first-half finish set Chelsea on their way to a morale-boosting win after the disappointment of defeat to Brentford. Badiashile was keen to emphasize the importance of responding positively to that setback with progression in the cup.
‘When you lose a game, you have a bad feeling, but as players, you have to be focused on the next game.
A win is always something great for the feeling [of the team]. It was a tough game but we got the win. That is what’s most important.’
The commanding centre-back led by example, producing an assured display on his return. He secured a 100 percent duel success rate and a 95 percent pass accuracy. Reuniting with former Monaco teammate Axel Disasi also eased Badiashile’s transition back into the Chelsea side.
Mauricio Pochettino will hope the 22-year-old can build on his encouraging return and establish himself as a regular starter. Badiashile already looks like an upgrade on Chelsea’s existing central defensive options if he can maintain his fitness.
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After patiently overcoming a difficult injury layoff, the talented Frenchman can now set his sights on securing a regular starting role.