Enzo Maresca handed double boost with the return of Lavia & Badiashile to squad ahead of important week.
Lavia & Badiashile return gives more depth to Maresca
Chelsea will finally get a sight of Romeo Lavia and Benoit Badiashile back in blue. That’s massive for a side stretched in the recent weeks.
Lavia’s presence gives Maresca an option who can dictate play and bring balance in the middle of the park. Young Andrey Santos has shown flashes, but his costly slip against Brighton reminded everyone he’s still raw. Lavia might not have the sharpness of match fitness test, but he adds a composure that this team desperately needs.
He isn’t fully ready yet, but the fact he’s available changes the dynamic. With a big European night around the corner, having him back gives the boss a little more breathing space in selection.
Badiashile’s chance to step up
Benoit Badiashile’s return could not have come at a better time. Chelsea’s defense is hanging by a thread with Colwill, Tosin, and Fofana sidelined. Meanwhile, Chalobah is suspended after his red card as well. This clears the path for the Frenchman to begin. That is regardless of his readiness.
Badiashile has shown he can perform well, but will his lack of consistency and fitness concern so many fans. Even still, Maresca is in a position where he must use him in this situation. The coming week will demand quick turnarounds.
Badiashile must show that he can perform on the big stage. If he remains fit and responsive, the opportunity exists for him to show that he belongs as an important player in this defense.
Author’s Opinion:
Maresca has every reason to smile with Lavia and Badiashile back in the mix. But, the suspension to Chalobah underlines how fragile this squad still is. The next few games will show whether these returns can spark a real turnaround.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
