Injury concerns for Chelsea persist as they gear up for a showdown against Liverpool at Wembley Stadium in the Carabao Cup final this weekend.
Despite a resurgence in form under Mauricio Pochettino, the Blues find themselves grappling with a lengthy list of absentees, casting a shadow over their preparations for the crucial fixture.
The Long Injury List for Chelsea with Potential Return Dates
Thiago Silva: Uncertain Return Date
Veteran defender Thiago Silva’s availability for the final remains uncertain as he nurses a minor groin injury. Although initially hopeful for a quick recovery, Pochettino’s latest update suggests Silva’s participation hinges on daily assessments.
Benoit Badiashile: Ruled Out Until March
French center-back Benoit Badiashile will be sidelined for the Carabao Cup final, having sustained a groin injury during the fourth-round replay against Aston Villa. His projected return date is set for Chelsea’s home clash with Newcastle on March 11.
Reece James: Prolonged Absence Continues
Chelsea captain Reece James continues to face setbacks in his recovery from hamstring surgery undergone just before Christmas. While Pochettino initially hoped for a swift return, James’ comeback timeline remains uncertain.
Romeo Lavia: Out of Contention
Belgian midfielder Romeo Lavia’s hopes for a comeback in the Carabao Cup final have been dashed as he continues to recover from a thigh injury. Pochettino confirmed that Lavia is yet to return to training, ruling him out for the upcoming fixture.
Marc Cucurella: Progressing in Rehabilitation
Left-back Marc Cucurella is making strides in his recovery from an ankle injury that required surgery. While he’s back on the training pitch, match fitness remains a few weeks away, with a potential return slated for March 2024.
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Lesley Ugochukwu: Recovery Timeline Uncertain
French midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu’s return to action remains shrouded in uncertainty after suffering a recurrence of a hamstring injury. Despite initially slated for a six-week absence, there’s been no update on his potential return.
Carney Chukwuemeka: Race Against Time
Carney Chukwuemeka faces a race against time to be fit for the Carabao Cup final after twisting his ankle during training. While the injury doesn’t seem severe, his availability for the showdown with Liverpool on February 25 hangs in the balance.
Wesley Fofana: Season Uncertain
Defender Wesley Fofana’s season hangs in the balance as he continues his recovery from anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery. With no clear return date in sight, Fofana’s comeback remains a waiting game.
Robert Sanchez: Personal Absence
Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez’s return to the squad is imminent after recovering from a knee injury. However, his absence against City was due to personal reasons, leaving Pochettino with a selection dilemma ahead of the final.