Palmer, Gusto and Lavia: Chelsea injury news and potential return dates ahead of Leicester City

Chelsea ended their recent stretch of games with a draw against Arsenal, and there is a growing sense that they are heading in the right direction under Enzo Maresca. One thing that has improved this season compared to last is the way they have managed to keep players healthy.

Last season, they struggled with a number of injuries, and though not many want to admit it, player absences had an impact on how Mauricio Pochettino selected players and it affected the overall chemistry of the team. For instance, Wesley Fofana, one of the standout players, was ruled out for the entire season, while Romeo Lavia could barely get onto the pitch.

Ahead of their trip to Leicester City, there have been a few withdrawals due to the international break, so here’s a look at how the players are doing and whether they could potentially be ready for the weekend’s game.

Cole Palmer

Palmer was available for the game against Arsenal but had to push through concerns about his strength and fitness. However, he was seen limping after the match, and upon preparing for England duty, it was deemed that he wasn’t fit enough to continue and was sent home. He was spotted in the training photos Chelsea released yesterday. Potential return: 23rd November 2024.

Romeo Lavia

Lavia seemed to pick up a knock during the Arsenal match, but he surprised many by travelling to Belgium. The injury was confirmed in a statement, and Belgium’s head coach, Domenico Tedesco, confirmed that Lavia had been left out of the matchday squad due to a hamstring issue. He said: "I think Romeo Lavia has a hamstring problem. It was bothering him this morning, and we didn't want to risk him." Potential return: Unknown.

Levi Colwill

Colwill also withdrew from the England squad for their matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland, with an unspecified injury cited as the reason. Potential return: Unknown.

Malo Gusto

Gusto, Chelsea’s versatile player who has featured in defence, midfield, and even in attack, was called up to play for France Under-21s. However, upon arrival at France’s training base in Clairefontaine, he underwent a medical examination, and it was confirmed that he would not be taking part in the international fixtures due to injury. Potential return: 23rd November 2024.

Jadon Sancho

Sancho has missed the last three games due to illness followed by an injury in training. He was seen training ahead of the Leicester game, and his return could present a selection dilemma, as Pedro Neto has raised his level of play in Sancho's absence. Potential return: 23rd November 2024.