Chelsea have been handed an injury boost ahead of their Premier League opener against Crystal Palace as manager Enzo Maresca confirmed that an injured star could be fit for the game.
Wesley Fofana hasn’t featured for the Blues since March, when he picked up an injury, but Maresca is positive that he could feature against the Eagles.
Fofana was spotted back in training earlier this week, and Maresca could now have one of his favourite Chelsea players ready to go for the new season.
The former Leicester City man was an integral part of Chelsea’s squad last season and played a key role in the team’s success before he picked up an injury.
Fofana formed a solid partnership with Levi Colwill at the heart of Chelsea’s defence at the start of last season, and Maresca would be glad to have him back.
However, Fofana’s return has coincided with an injury to Colwill, so Maresca will have to think of a new central defensive partnership for the game against Palace.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Enzo Maresca confirms Wesley Fofana could start against Crystal Palace
The manager said in his pre-match press conference that, despite not being ready for their upcoming pre-season friendlies, Fofana would likely be ready for the season opener.
He said, “Wes is back, he’s training with us. I don’t think he’s ready to get minutes in the next two games, but probably can be available for the Palace game. Big news, because we started last season with Wes and Levi.”
Fofana’s return is great news for Chelsea as he enters what could be a make-or-break season at the club.
Despite being at Stamford Bridge for over three years, injuries have been the story of his time at the club.
On his return from injury, Fofana has the opportunity to stamp his authority and make one of the centre-back positions his own, but if he fails to do so, that might be the end of the road for him at Chelsea.
