Head coach Liam Rosenior has delivered the latest Chelsea injury update ahead of the English Premier League match against Brentford at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, January 17.
Rosenior spoke to the media on Thursday, January 15, offering updates on several key players as the Blues prepare for a difficult run of fixtures.
Key Chelsea injury updates
Rosenior confirmed that Cole Palmer and Reece James are close to returning from their absence.
“With Reece and Cole, both of them are training today so we just need to assess them after training and make sure they come through all of the protocols they need to come through,” Rosenior told the gathered media.
Their potential returns would be a boost for the Blues, who have struggled for consistency in recent weeks.
Palmer and James were among those who missed the midweek Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Arsenal. They sat out as a precaution, with the club managing their workloads carefully during a busy period.
Rosenior said it would “be great to have them back in the squad” if they pass their training tests.
Virus in the locker room
In contrast, Liam Delap and Jamie Gittens remain unavailable after falling ill earlier in the week.
“Liam is still at home recovering at the moment, as is Jamie Gittens. Our club doctors are doing everything they can to contain what looks to be a virus, because some members of our staff have gone down with it as well,” Rosenior explained.
Rosenior even held a meeting reminding the squad about basic hygiene measures like washing hands.
Is Lavia close to a return?
Another player Rosenior updated on was Romeo Lavia, who has been sidelined since early November.
“Romeo is on the pitch, he’s not with the group yet but we can see him out on the grass doing his rehab,” Rosenior added. “He is looking really, really good.”
Rosenior said he is “really looking forward” to having the Belgian back with the group when the time is right.
“The most important thing for him now is to make sure we don’t push him too hard, so that when he does come back, he’s back for good and I can get some real work into him tactically.
“For me, he’s a player I can’t wait to have back in the group, and I’m really, really looking forward to having him back with us.”
Rosenior’s reign so far
Chelsea’s form has been mixed under Rosenior since he replaced Enzo Maresca.
The new coach’s first match in charge was a 5-1 FA Cup win at Charlton. However, that positive result was followed by a 3-2 loss to Arsenal in the League Cup semi-final first leg.
Despite the defeat, Rosenior has stressed competition for places. He insisted that no one has a guaranteed spot in the team, pushing players to earn their place on merit.
With key fixtures ahead, including Premier League and European games, Rosenior’s ability to manage fitness and form will be tested.
The potential returns of James and Palmer, coupled with progress on Lavia’s recovery, could provide a timely lift for Chelsea as they look to climb up the table.
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