Enzo Maresca handed double boost to squad ahead of important week | OneFootball

Every time we’re expecting Chelsea’s situation to get better, it gets worse.

The game against Brighton yesterday saw the return of Romeo Lavia and Benoit Badiashile to the pitch. That should be a real positive given how many injuries we have at the moment. But the red card for Trevoh Chalobah now means he’s ruled out for our next game.

It’s two steps forward, one step back, at best.

Lavia adds to Chelsea’s midfield options

Romeo Lavia on the ball against LAFC. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC)

Lavia is essential central midfield cover. We really like Andrey Santos – he’s go ta lot to offer and a lot of potential. But we saw with his mistake yesterday which put Chalobah into trouble for his goal that he’s far from the finished product. It’s hard to imagine Lavia taking such a loose touch in those circumstances.

He will need time to regain his match fitness and sharpness on the ball, but if he can he can be a hugely important part of getting this team functioning again.

Badiashile set to be thrown into action, ready or not

As for Badiashile – he’s never been reliable in terms of fitness, and hasn’t been much more reliable on the pitch either. He has talent and has good moments, but is not the commanding, calm, dominant defender this team is screaming out for.

Still, with Tosin Adarabioyo joining Levi Colwill out injured and Wesley Fofana ruled out until after the international break with concussion, we can expect to see plenty of the Frenchman – if he can stay fit. Chalobah can play against Benfica on Tuesday, the question is if Badiashile can return from injury to a Tuesday – Saturday double or not.

We suspect not – so Josh Acheampong is likely to get at least one start next week.