Chelsea have a new, very welcomed face in their Club World Cup camp.
Well, it’s not exactly new, but it certainly feels fresh.
Ben Chilwell has been captured by the club’s cameras with the rest of the squad in Abu Dhabi.
A thumbs up and a glistening smile; what a joyous sight.
Slowly but surely for Chilly
Although it is wonderful to see the 25-year-old back amongst the gang, we are well aware this isn’t his long-awaited return to action.
Having suffered an anterior ligament injury at the beginning of December, fans shouldn’t expect to see the England international in full flight until at least next season.
This particular wound needs extra care and cannot be rushed, by any stretch of the word.
As frustrating as this sounds, the reward outweighs the risk.
Chilwell will know this better than anyone, despite being desperate to play competitively once again.
Thomas Tuchel must be eager to call upon the defender’s services once again, due to Chelsea’s downturn in results during his absence.
Since the left-back hit the treatment table, the Champions League holders have only won four times in the Premier League from a possible 12 fixtures.
Yet, at least he can now soak up some rays and hopefully watch the team obtain another trophy over the next few days.
Club World Cup action
The Blues kick start their Club World Cup campaign with a semi-final clash against Al Hilal later this afternoon.
On paper, this should be a routine victory for the Blues. However, underestimating their opponents is not a wise move.
Al Hilal have the presence of former Watford and Manchester United striker Odion Ighalo upfront, alongside ex-Porto attacker Moussa Marega.
Chelsea should know all about Matheus Pereira as well, the player who scored twice in West Bromwich’s Albion’s 5-2 victory at Stamford Bridge last April.
Hopefully, this sprinkling of European quality should make for a decent contest.
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