Chelsea have received a significant fitness boost ahead of their midweek Premier League derby against Fulham, with two key players returning to first-team training.
Defensive Duo Set for Comeback
Marc Cucurella and goalkeeper Robert Sanchez are both back in contention for Wednesday's west London clash at Craven Cottage. The pair have been sidelined with separate issues but took part in a full session on Tuesday, putting them in the frame for selection.
Sanchez missed Chelsea's trip to Manchester City last Sunday, which was his first league absence of the season. The Spanish goalkeeper sustained a minor muscle injury in the build-up to the match at the Etihad Stadium.
Cucurella, meanwhile, has been out since suffering a thigh problem during the 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa just before the New Year. The left-back has consequently missed the Blues' last two fixtures.
MacFarlane's Cautious Optimism
Interim head coach Calum MacFarlane provided a positive update during his pre-match press conference, though he stopped short of guaranteeing their involvement. "They're all training today," MacFarlane stated. "We've got training in a few hours, so they'll be taking part in the session today. We'll have a lot better idea after the session. At this point none of the players are ruled out."
He emphasised that a final decision would be made after assessing the players post-training: "So we'll look at training, see how they look, and make a call after that."
Further Squad Updates Ahead of Derby
There was also encouraging news regarding defender Wesley Fofana, who was absent against City due to illness. MacFarlane revealed the Frenchman would be assessed upon his arrival at the training ground. "He's going to be checked when he comes in, they're reporting shortly so he'll be checked when he comes in," the coach added.
In another positive, midfielder Moises Caicedo is available again after serving a one-match suspension against Manchester City.
While the club confirmed the permanent appointment of Liam Rosenior as Enzo Maresca's successor, MacFarlane will remain in the dugout for the Fulham fixture. Rosenior is expected to observe the match from the stands. MacFarlane spoke warmly of the incoming boss, saying: "I spoke to Liam briefly last night. He's obviously really excited about taking the role... [I] really enjoy watching his sides... Aggressive, front-foot football, really good on the ball."
The return of Cucurella and Sanchez provides a timely lift for Chelsea as they seek to secure a positive result in a local derby that is always fiercely contested.
