مدير عام كرة القدم
- Defenders had been injury doubts
- Fears of centre-back crisis at تشيلسي eased
- Blues take on Community Shield winners Palace
There would have been a few concerns in the Blues changing room when Chalobah was forced off in Chelsea’s 4-1 pre-season friendly victory over ميلان. Coupled with Fofana’s ongoing problems with fitness, Maresca would have been sweating over the pair’s availability. However, it appears both defenders will be fine to start the season.
Speaking after the game, Maresca said: “[Chalobah] is ok. It was too hot, so he decided to go out!
“[Fofana] will be available for Palace. We are very happy because he is an important player.”
Chelsea’s defensive options have been limited following the injury of central-defender Levi Colwill. The Englishman tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in training and has undergone surgery. It is unlikely that Colwill will make an appearance for the club this season with ACL injuries typically taking nine to 12 months to recover from.
It is a difficult opening test for the Blues as they take on كريستال بالاس. The Eagles will be buoyed by yet more success at Wembley, having beaten ليفربول on penalties to lift the Community Shield on Sunday.
