Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has provided an update on the fitness of key players ahead of their Premier League showdown with Manchester City, confirming that club captain Reece James will miss the match, alongside Trevoh Chalobah and Levi Colwill.
James is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, while Chalobah is still recovering from his own setback. Colwill, however, has returned to full training after ACL surgery but is not yet deemed fully match fit for competitive action.
Rosenior said all three players are expected to return to full availability in the coming weeks, offering a boost for Chelsea’s run-in as they continue their push for a strong Premier League finish and European qualification.
“Trevoh (Chalobah) is working really, really hard. He is back on the pitch,” Rosenior said.
“Levi (Colwill) is in full training but still needs to overcome some hurdles in terms of selection.
“Reece has been running today, which is great, but no, I’ve got a good squad and we’re ready to go and take on Man City.”
The Chelsea boss stressed confidence in his squad depth despite the absentees, insisting the team remains competitive even without key leaders and defenders.
Chelsea will also be without midfielder Enzo Fernández, who remains suspended, further limiting their options for the clash with Pep Guardiola’s side.
Rosenior, however, maintained belief that his team can still compete strongly against City, pointing to the overall quality within the squad and the importance of recent training time together.
“I’ve got an outstanding squad, full of outstanding players. It’s still a very difficult team to pick in terms of the starting eleven,” he added.
He also noted that the recent break in fixtures has given him valuable time to work with his players, highlighting the challenges of taking over a squad mid-season during a congested fixture period.
“It’s the first time since I’ve been here that I’ve had two training days in a row. I don’t think a magician can make the team look how I want it in the time I’ve had so far,” Rosenior said.
“I know what I want the team to look like. It may take time but it cannot be at the expense of fulfilling short-term objectives.”
Galaxy Sports Production
Should we send you latest update about your favourite sports and team?
Enter you email in the box below and hit the subscribe button to join our teaming 876+ sports community.
