Leicester vs Chelsea: 5 key matchups that could go either way
By Kee Min
Injuries vs Staying Fit
I already spelled some injury issues, but it goes deeper than that.
Reece James and Tammy Abraham have both established themselves as a key part of the Chelsea squads, but it is very unclear on whether or not they will be included in the squad at all. While James’ injury was first diagnosed as not as serious, it has been suspiciously quiet in that front.
Abraham seems to be making more progress, however still not 100%. Lampard has commented that he might ask the striker to play through the injury, but it seems unlikely that the Englishman will be forced to play.
Leicester City does not come in unscrapped. Jamie Vardy returned against Aston Villa, making a substitute appearance. While Brendan Rodgers says the talisman looks good, the fitness level might not be up to the usual standards for the striker to make a truly great impact.
Wilfried Ndid was also forced out not too long ago. However, the Nigerian returned the pitch sooner than the initially diagnosed three-to-four week recovery period. During his absence, the Foxes dropped both of their matches against Southampton and Burnley. While the midfielder seems to be back full-time, his performances have certainly dipped since the quick return.
Pinch me, Everton just rejected £85m from Barcelona for Richarlison?!. dark. Next
If Abraham and James make a surprise return to the starting XI, it can cover for a lot of concerns the Blues might have for this matchup.