Chelsea have been given an injury boost regarding Trevoh Chalobah ahead of their Premier League meeting with Manchester United.
The 24-year-old missed Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Burnley as he wasn’t fully fit, but Chalobah could return on Thursday.
Pochettino has alternatives in defence
The centre-back was ‘in partial team training’ against Burnley but is back ‘in team training’ ahead of the midweek clash. Chalobah has been a regular for Chelsea when fit this season, but Mauricio Pochettino isn’t short of defensive options.
Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile and Thiago Silva should all be available against United, so Chalobah has stiff competition. The 24-year-old hasn’t played for more than two weeks, so it might be too big a game when not 100%. Nevertheless, it’s good news for Pochettino that he should be available for selection.
The former England youth international has made six appearances in all competitions this season. Chalobah has spent most of the campaign on the treatment table, having a thigh injury up until the New Year. It’s put his long-term future at Stamford Bridge in doubt, so Chalobah will want a strong finish to the season.
Chalobah playing for his future?
Chelsea are desperate for the same after a woeful league campaign that sees them 12th in the table. The Blues have a lot to prove but come into the United clash off the back of fine form. Pochettino’s men boast three wins and two draws from their last five games in all competitions.
Chalobah needs as much playing time as possible to boost his chances of staying beyond the summer. The 24-year-old returned to the matchday squad from injury on February 12 and featured days later. He played in the League Cup final, FA Cup fifth round, and started consecutive league games until the setback.
Chalobah played 33 times last season, so he is an important player when fit. He’s a good option at centre-back for Pochettino to have, but he might sit out against United.
