Selection headache for Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca as key player returns from injury

Selection headache for Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca as key player returns from injury

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 18:08 - 27.09.2024

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has revealed the Blues have a nearly-fit squad ahead of their Premier League clash against Brighton.

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has delivered a welcome fitness boost ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Brighton and Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge, confirming Romeo Lavia's return to full fitness.

Lavia, who had been sidelined with a hamstring injury since last month, is now available for selection, bolstering Chelsea's midfield options.

Enzo Maresca faces selection dilemma ahead of Brighton clash

"Romeo is back available," Maresca announced during his pre-match press conference at Cobham.

Romeo Lavia || Image credit: Imago

"We will see [whether he can start the game or be one of the substitutes]. We have one more session now and then we will decide. The important thing is he's back and available, which is very good news."

The only notable absentee remains Reece, with Maresca revealing no significant update on the defender's recovery.

"Everyone else is okay to face Brighton, the only one [who will be missing] is Reece. With Reece, he is still out and there is no real update on him at the moment."

Meanwhile, Maresca faces a pleasant selection dilemma up front, with Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku both in scintillating form.

Jackson's double against West Ham and Nkunku's hat-trick against Barrow in the Carabao Cup have given Maresca food for thought.

"I think it's good for me to have some doubts," Maresca said.

"That means they are doing well and take the chance when we give it to them. This is something important and something we need to continue to do because I think we create the right culture in terms of the team competing and this is important."

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