Injury Check: Ben Chilwell, Lavia, Chukwuemeka’s Status for Preston FA Cup

Ben Chilwell and Carney Chukwuemeka were invited to first team practice by Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino this week to hone their talents before the FA Cup match against Preston at Stamford Bridge.

Chukwuemeka sustained a knee injury after scoring against West Ham in the team’s second league game of the season, and Chilwell hasn’t featured for the team since he hurt his hamstring against Brighton in October.

Although Pochettino has consistently mentioned the team’s never-ending losing streak this season, he will be hoping that Chilwell, the assistant club captain, is healthy enough to play this weekend. In addition, Reece James will be out for an additional three months following surgery to address a recurrent hamstring issue.

Goalie Robert Sanchez is dealing with a similar knee issue, and Wesley Fofana is still not expected to play this season due to a pre-season injury. The West London team has not fared well in the league, but if they can get past Middlesbrough in the upcoming round, they have a chance to play in the Carabao Cup final.

Given their lack of consistency in the league, that may be a path to Europe the next season. If Pochettino could guide them to victory, the FA Cup might potentially prove to be a season-defining event. He would instantly become an instant hero.

With so much still up for grabs, Argentine boss Jorge Pochettino will be hoping that the injury list thins out and important players return for the second half of the campaign. Here is a list of injured players along with their anticipated return dates.

Ben Chilwell

Back in first team training and hoping to play a role this weekend.

Trevoh Chalobah

Battling a knee injury he picked up in pre-season. Suffered a set back on his way back. Aims to return later this month.