Mauricio Pochettino has revealed that decisions are yet to be taken over comeback dates for three of Chelsea's defensive-minded players.
On Wednesday evening, the Blues got back to winning ways with a deserved 3-1 victory over Aston Villa in their FA Cup fourth-round replay.
However, in the aftermath of that fixture, there remain doubts over the fitness of several defenders including Benoit Badiashile, who was injured during the closing stages.
The Frenchman had impressed alongside Axel Disasi before he went down with what appeared to be a groin issue, forcing his withdrawal with three minutes left.
Levi Colwill also remained a notable absentee for the fourth game in succession with what was initially described as a minor tendon injury.
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On a more positive note, Trevoh Chalobah has been pushing to make his return from a thigh problem after failing to make a competitive appearance throughout 2023-24.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Pochettino commented on the trio, hinting that he was still awaiting answers from the club's medical team.
Pochettino told reporters: "Badiashile, we need to assess him. We need to wait for the scan. Maybe Levi Colwill, we need to wait until Sunday to see if it is possible to be available.
"Trevoh Chalobah, he is doing well, he is training with the team. Nothing to update at the moment."
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Colwill and Chalobah have each been removed from the club's official injury update, potentially an indication that they are expected to be available for Monday's Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
If Badiashile, as expected, is ruled out, the pair will be competing with Thiago Silva to feature alongside Axel Disasi in the middle of the backline.
With Ben Chilwell having proven his fitness since returning from a hamstring injury, Colwill is currently not required to deputise at left-back, as he has done for much of the season.
While Malo Gusto was recently rested due to muscle fatigue, the right-back has since come through 216 minutes of football across three appearances that came within a week.
Darren Plant
