Graham Potter reveals one Chelsea player to surely play some part against Aston Villa

Chelsea boss Graham Potter is preparing his troops for the home clash against Aston Villa as Premier League resumes after the March international break. Ahead of the Villa clash, the Solihull native provided updates on the injured players as Chelsea are set to receive an injury boost with N’Golo Kante will be available for the clash.

Kante last donned the Chelsea shirt on 14th August 2022 when CFC played Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge. Since then the Frenchman has remained on the sidelines with a hamstring injury. Kante then underwent surgery, ruling him out of the FIFA World Cup and delaying his Chelsea return.

The 32 year old started light training last month and eventually joined his teammates in full training session. He finally made it to the match day squad for the first time in seven months as Chelsea took on Everton. He did not play a part in the 2-2 draw but it was an indication that Kante was very close to returning to the pitch.

Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante to play some part against Aston Villa

During the international break, Kante continued to train at Cobham and played an internal game as he got some much needed minutes to gain some match fitness and sharpness. With Kante coming back after a long time on the sidelines, Potter is aware that his workload needs to be managed and he cannot be rushed into the team.

A recent report stated that Chelsea will look to get Kante completely fit to start for the Real Madrid game in two weeks’ time and the Premier League clashes against Villa, Liverpool and Wolves will act as chances to get Kante on the pitch for short cameos.

Prior to the clash against Unai Emery’s side, Potter addressed the media and delivered some optimistic news regarding star midfielder Kante.

"“We have to manage that as the next stage for us because he’s been out for so long. The minutes and building those minutes in the Premier League. He’s been training well and he’s had some behind closed doors time and he’s available in the squad and I’m pretty sure he will be on the pitch at some point tomorrow (Saturday).” (via club’s official website)"

With Potter going on to claim that Kante will play some part in the Villa game means that the Frenchman is ready and will surely get minutes regardless of the situation. Kante and Chelsea seem to be targeting the UEFA Champions League quarter final and playing some minutes prior to the quarter final clash will allow the 32 year old to build some fitness and match sharpness.

How will Potter use N’Golo Kante in the team?