Chelsea injury news and return dates: Mudryk, James, Chilwell

The Pride of London discuss the latest Chelsea injury news and possible return dates for players such as improving winger Mykhailo Mudryk, captain and defender Reece James, along with England international Ben Chilwell.

I really believe that the loss of Chilwell is underrated at Chelsea. I have not been the biggest fan of the ex-Leicester City man’s over the years, but he has left a hole in the Blues starting lineup. All that is really known about the leftback is that Mauricio Pochettino said he’ll be assessed next week.

Meanwhile, James will play against Blackburn Rovers in the EFL Cup. Although, Mudryk is a ‘maybe’ at this stage.

Christopher Nkunku’s potentially huge Chelsea impact with imminent debut expected

I feel as much anticipation for good fortune at Stamford Bridge from Nkunku’s upcoming eventual Blues start as I did when Mauricio Pochettino was appointed boss on Fulham Road. If not more so. The Argentine’s arrival was the perfect move for CFC; the start has been tough yet he remains the right man in my opinion. I know those impatient folks among the Blues fan base will disagree, but I can’t think of many bosses that would be viable swaps for ‘Poch’.

If anything, Nkunku’s integration might be the catalyst for long-awaited fundamental improvement and stability at Chelsea Football Club. Mainly through increasing the strike rate personally and through facilitation. That effect is long overdue, obviously since the Roman Abramovich days. Sadly Nkunku will not receive his blooding in proper versus Blackburn Rovers in the English Football League Cup.

That fixture would possibly have been very convenient in getting some much needed game time and confidence for the Frenchman. Nevertheless, Nkunku will enter the fray soon enough. His manager says he is nearing full fitness and is working ahead of schedule, which is excellent to hear.