French Star Christopher Nkunku is expected to return from injury for Chelsea in time to play against Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup quarterfinal.
Nkunku Injury
After making an impression in his first few preseason games, the Frenchman—who cost £52 million—joined from RB Leipzig. However, he later sustained a knee injury that required surgery.
Though manager Mauricio Pochettino recently announced the 25-year-old is ahead of schedule. And expected a probable comeback after the November international break. It was first thought that Nkunku would not return until 2024.
After a break, Chelsea will play in the Premier League against Newcastle on November 25. In the first two weeks of December, the team will play in league matches against Brighton & Hove Albion, Manchester United, Everton, and Sheffield United.
French Star Return
Chelsea hopes to start Nkunku in the Carabao Cup match against Newcastle on December 20. A return to competitive action is scheduled for the games earlier in the month, sources have revealed to 90min.
Nkunku moved on to the next phase of his recuperation, Chelsea stated earlier this week. The Frenchman followed up the news with a social media post with the hashtag “getting closer” on it.
Injuries have plagued a number of Chelsea players in the first half of the season, including Nkunku. Romeo Lavia, another summer acquisition, is still awaiting his competitive debut.
His debut appearance after Lavia’s £58 million move from Southampton was postponed due to a hamstring injury. And he was returned to the treatment table after an ankle knock during training.
Injury Crisis
Chelsea wasn’t willing to take any chances with the young Belgian, even if they had thought Lavia would have bounced back from that setback by now. Although Pochettino has previously stated that the midfield player won’t be making a comeback during the international break, the Blues are still hoping to see Lavia play in some games come December.
Wesley Fofana, a centre defender, is still out as well after rupturing his ACL in July. The Frenchman had surgery, but not before teasing supporters on social media in October with a message that said his comeback may be “soon”.
Though no chances will be taken with the defender, club officials are optimistic that Fofana will be able to intensify his bid to return in January, six months after his operation.
