Manager confirms Estêvão returns to Chelsea for Aston Villa clash | OneFootball

The Chelsea coach, Enzo Maresca, hopes that Liam Delap and Estevão will be available for the match against Aston Villa, who are in good form, on Saturday.

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Delap has recovered from a shoulder injury sustained during the draw with Bournemouth on December 6, when it seemed that the £30 million (approximately R$233 million) striker would be sidelined for a long period.

The 22-year-old has yet to score his first Premier League goal since transferring from Ipswich in the transfer window, having missed about 10 weeks of the season, mainly due to a groin issue suffered in his first start at home in August.

The return of Estevão, who hasn't played since coming on as a substitute at the end of the match against Everton on December 13, also boosts Maresca's options.

“Estevão is available for Saturday, as is Liam Delap,” said Maresca. “We didn’t know exactly how long (Delap) would need to be out. Very happy for both.”

Saturday’s match will feature two of England's top number 10s: Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa against Cole Palmer of Chelsea, both looking to secure their spots in the squad for next year’s World Cup.

Rogers has been a standout for third-placed Aston Villa this season, but Maresca was keen to back his player, saying: “I love Cole and he is my player. He’s a good option for (England manager) Thomas (Tuchel), but ultimately, the decision is his.”

Reece James has impressed for fourth-placed Chelsea after several injury-plagued seasons and was crucial in the Blues' comeback from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with Newcastle.

When asked if James is behaving like the captain he desires, Maresca replied: “Certainly, yes. He is evolving in terms of leadership and playing more minutes. That’s why we’re happy, because firstly, he can stay fit and healthy, and also because he can be a leader.

He is one of the main players. He is a homegrown player, he is the captain. When he is fit, he is one of the best players we have, without a doubt.”

*With content from AFP

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