While it remains uncertain whether he will be fit enough to start, his return would be a significant boost for Chelsea as they navigate a congested fixture schedule.Maresca’s initial prognosis led Chelsea to recall Trevoh Chalobah from his loan spell at Crystal Palace to provide defensive reinforcement.

Chelsea have been given hope of arresting their poor form by the news that Wesley Fofana is back from injury way ahead of schedule. The Blues suffered a crushing blow in December when the Frenchman went down with what looked like another long-term injury.

Benoit Badiashile has also been sidelined since December, leaving Tosin Adarabioyo, Levi Colwill and Trevoh Chalobah, who was recalled from his loan at Crystal Palace in January, as the the only fit centre-backs available to Maresca.