Graham Potter confirms four Chelsea players could return v Fulham

Add as preferred source on Google

Graham Potter said four Chelsea players are back in contention for Friday’s clash against Fulham, but several key players remain out due to injuries.

The Blues have been dealing with what Potter described as an “unprecedented” injury situation this season.

Last month, Chelsea’s extensive injury list includes as many as 11 players following Denis Zakaria’s addition.

Fortunately, at least four of them may return for Fulham’s visit to Stamford Bridge on Friday.

Ben Chilwell, Reece James, Raheem Sterling, and Ruben [Loftus-Cheek] are back in the squad, not ready for 90 minutes but in the squad,” Potter said during Thursday’s press conference (via Chelsea’s 5th Stand app).

“Wesley [Fofana] has been part training partly with the team, and he will be stepping it up next week.”

Ideally, Potter would be able to field all four of them, including Loftus-Cheek.

Chelsea are currently short on midfield options after Jorginho’s exit, and his replacement Enzo Fernandez could miss out on the match due to a work permit issue, according to Potter.

However, Potter will have to take into account these returnees’ fitness as well.

A re-injury, like what happened to James recently, is the last thing that Chelsea would want given the situation.

Potter also ruled Mateo Kovacic, N’Golo Kante, Christian Pulisic, and Zakaria out of the west London derby.

Obviously, Armando Broja, who is out on a long-term injury is also out.

Keep up to date with all the latest Chelsea news and opinion by following The Chelsea Chronicle’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.