Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has attempted to play down the significance of Romeo Lavia's latest stint on the sidelines.
Last season, the Belgium international made just one substitute appearance courtesy of ankle and muscle injuries.
On the back of a successful pre-season where Lavia proved his fitness, the 21-year-old picked up his first issue of the season in the second game against Servette in the Conference League.
That encouraged Maresca to only consider Lavia for selection for one match per week, the player having since made nine starts and three substitute outings in all competitions.
However, Lavia has made just two appearances since the second weekend in December and there appears little certainty over when he will return.
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What has Maresca said on Lavia?
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday morning, Maresca revealed that Lavia may not come back into contention until after the March international break.
Quizzed on whether he had long-term concerns over the £53m man, the Italian preferred to try to remain optimistic, highlighting that Wesley Fofana had suffered similar issues after essentially a year out.
As quoted by football.london, Maresca said: "It happens. It is football and they can get injuries. Unfortunately we have our injured players they more or less had the same problems the year before. If you have injuries one year, the year after you are going to struggle. It's normal.
"Romeo, in terms of numbers, he has improved compared to last season with games played. Hopefully he can finish well the last part of the season and be more fit next season."
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How far will Lavia patience stretch?
Given the money that Chelsea shelled out on Lavia, there is no prospect of any admirers from afar looking to sign the former Manchester City youngster.
Furthermore, it appears unlikely that Chelsea would consider a loan for the player unless they are without European football in 2025-26.
However, Lavia's absence is a considerable blow at the present time with Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall the only fit senior options.
While Andrey Santos will be integrated next season after a season on loan at Strasbourg, Maresca will be focused on dealing with the short-term issues in the engine room.
Darren Plant
