Chelsea are reportedly in line to receive an injury boost in the coming weeks with regards to Benoit Badiashile.
The Blues have just concluded the winter transfer window without making any additions in the defensive third of the pitch.
However, the green light was given for Renato Veiga, Axel Disasi and Ben Chilwell to all go out on loan, rather than retain the depth of Enzo Maresca's options at the back.
With Trevoh Chalobah having been recalled from his loan at Crystal Palace, Chelsea have another player at their disposal, yet they remain without Wesley Fofana and Badiashile due to injury.
Nevertheless, as per football.london, it appears that the latter is closing in on a return.
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When could Badiashile return?
Badiashile has not played for Chelsea since the December 8 fixture against Tottenham Hotspur, now approaching two months on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.
As a result, the former Monaco man has missed as many as 12 matches, Maresca opting for several different partnerships in the meantime.
The report claims that the 23-year-old has recently been undergoing individual work on the training ground to step up his rehabilitation.
He will now seemingly look to become involved with the rest of the senior squad ahead of a return over the next two weeks.
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A major boost for Maresca?
Maresca hopes that Chelsea will head into their next batch of fixtures still competing in the FA Cup ahead of a return to Conference League action in March.
While Badiashile may have only made 10 starts and two substitute outings during 2024-25, that could improve considerably if he can remain fit.
Levi Colwill's form has dropped in recent weeks, theoretically creating an opportunity for Badiashile to feature as the left-sided centre-back.
Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo and Josh Acheampong are Maresca's alternative options, with the trio all preferring to play on the right side.
Chelsea have four fixtures across a 17-day period before they play the first leg of their Conference League last-16 tie on March 6.
Darren Plant
