Chelsea’s first team players will have been delighted to have been handed somewhat of a break when they got their FA Cup campaign underway at the weekend.
Enzo Maresca made 10 changes to his side to dismantle Morecambe, with only Pedro Neto surviving as a starter.
The Blues have been impacted by a number of injury problems of late, however were delighted to welcome back two key players at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
Both Reece James and Romeo Lavia started and completed 45 minutes as they look to finally put an end to their rough run of injuries in the last 18 months.
Reece James, Romeo Lavia and Noni Madueke are all fit for Chelsea vs Bournemouth
The notable omission from the squad over the weekend was Noni Madueke, with some fearing the worst after he was left out on Boxing Day for disciplinary reasons.
However, Maresca clarified that he was missing due to illness, and stated in his pre-match press conference that he was ready to feature again, with James and Lavia also coming through their return games injury-free.
He said: “Yes, we are very happy for both. They played 45 minutes and are available. They are available and since we started, we are trying to manage both because of their delicate situations.”
And when asked about Madueke, the manager said: “He is back. He is training with us and 100% fit.”
Noni Madueke needs to repay Enzo Maresca faith
The boss has not been afraid to make big decisions this season as he looks to maintain the standards across his squad.
Madueke has fallen foul of this a number of times now, however has the chance to start again tomorrow night and turn things around.
Madueke has match-winning capabilities on the right wing, and is certainly proving the winger with the most goal threat at Stamford Bridge this season.
The England international has a notably good relationship with Cole Palmer, who is of course expected to return to first team duties tomorrow night.
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