Predictions
Enzo Maresca Provides Wesley Fofana Injury Update Ahead of West Ham Clash
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has provided a positive update on defender Wesley Fofana’s recovery, hinting that the Frenchman could finally return to action in the Blues’ upcoming clash against West Ham.
Fofana endured a frustrating 2023/24 campaign, featuring just 14 times due to a serious hamstring injury that required surgery. He was named on the bench for Chelsea’s 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace on the opening weekend, but Maresca revealed that it was only for squad presence rather than playing time.
“Wes was on the bench but was just on the bench to be with us, the plan was not for him to have any minutes,” Maresca said.
“Hopefully for the next one we can start to use him for some minutes.”
Defensive Concerns Mounting
Chelsea’s defensive options have been stretched thin with Levi Colwill sidelined by a serious knee injury and new signing Tosin Adarabioyo missing the Palace game due to a “physical problem.” Maresca admitted the club is still unsure of the severity of Tosin’s setback.
“He had a physical problem, we don’t know for how long,” the Chelsea boss added.
With injuries piling up, Maresca has reiterated his desire for the club to bring in another central defender before the transfer window closes.
Frustration in Attack
While Chelsea’s backline remains under pressure, Maresca was more concerned with his side’s lack of finishing against Crystal Palace. The Blues created several good chances but failed to find a breakthrough.
“I think, overall, we deserved [to win],” he said.
“We created enough chances between the first half and second half. Apart from the free-kick where the goal was disallowed, I don’t think we conceded chances.”
Chelsea will be hoping to convert those chances when they face West Ham on Friday night, with supporters eager to see whether Fofana makes his long-awaited return to the pitch.
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