Chelsea injury update: Thiago Silva, Reece James and Romeo Lavia latest news and return dates
Chelsea will turn their attention back towards the FA Cup this week.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side have now missed out on their first attempt at a major trophy to truly kickstart the Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital era at Stamford Bridge, having been beaten by an understrength Liverpool team in the Carabao Cup final.
That is a huge disappointment after such a big spending spree since the takeover in 2022 and places even more pressure on the club’s FA Cup campaign.
Leeds await in the fifth round later this week and defeat to the Championship side would surely lead to serious questions being asked as to where this team is going.
With that in mind, here’s a look at the latest Chelsea injuries…
Thiago Silva
The experienced Thiago Silva missed the Carabao Cup final after suffering a groin injury against Crystal Palace earlier this month, one that ruled him out of the draw with Manchester City and duly the Carabao Cup final.
Back in training before the trip to Wembley, however, there seems hope that the Brazilian’s return is not too far away.
Potential return date: February 2024
Marc Cucurella
Marc Cucurella has not featured for the Blues since the defeat away at Everton in December following surgery on an ankle injury.
Still, a return seems close with the Spaniard having been pictured in training alongside Silva.
Potential return date: February 2024
Carney Chukwuemeka
Carney Chukwuemeka twisted his ankle before the trip to City. While the problem is not thought to be serious, it was enough to rule him out of Sunday’s defeat.
Potential return date: Unknown
Lesley Ugochukwu
Lesley Ugochukwu was expected to miss around six weeks of action following a hamstring injury picked up away at Wolves on Christmas Eve. That timeline has now elapsed but there has been no update as to a potential return.
Potential return date: Unknown
Romeo Lavia
Fellow midfielder and summer signing Romeo Lavia had to wait months for his debut after arriving from Southampton with an ankle injury but suffered a fresh problem during it. A thigh issue has ruled him out of action since December and Pochettino last week confirmed the Belgian was yet to return to team training.
Potential return date: Unknown
Reece James
Pochettino’s first season in charge hasn’t been made any easier due to the consistent absence of Reece James. The Blues skipper underwent hamstring surgery in Finland just before Christmas and is yet to return to team training.
Potential return date: Unknown
Wesley Fofana
Defender Wesley Fofana underwent surgery before the start of pre-season in another huge blow for the player.
It remains to be seen whether or not he plays at all this season.
Potential return date: Unknown
