Chelsea have received a timely lift ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Newcastle, with Jamie Gittens returning to full training and Estevao edging closer .
Liam Rosenior confirmed the news in his Friday press conference, offering a mixed update on two key attackers as the Blues prepare for a defining week .
THE GITTENS RETURN
“Jamie is back involved,” Rosenior said, confirming the winger has recovered from the hamstring tear suffered against West Ham on January 31 .
That’s a significant boost. Gittens has been missing for six weeks, and his return restores attacking depth at exactly the right time. With Chelsea facing Newcastle then the small matter of a Champions League second leg against PSG , options are crucial.
THE ESTEVAO CAUTION
“Este is still a little bit further away,” Rosenior admitted. “We want to be careful with Este’s hamstring injury because we don’t want it reoccurring. We’ll see how he is for Tuesday’s game against PSG.”
The Brazilian hasn’t featured since Chelsea’s FA Cup victory over Hull last month . What was initially described as an “awareness in his hamstring” has required a more cautious rehab programme.
Tuesday might come too soon. But the fact he’s even a consideration for the PSG game suggests progress.
THE PSG CONTEXT
Speaking of which Chelsea trail 5-2 from the first leg in Paris . It’s a mountain to climb, but not impossible. Having Gittens available and Estevao potentially involved could make a difference.
Rosenior will need everyone firing.
THE DEFENSIVE PICTURE
Levi Colwill remains the only long term absentee. The defender hasn’t featured all season after sustaining a serious knee injury in pre season training . He’s back training but still weeks away from a potential comeback.
For now, Rosenior must plan without him, though the gradual improvement in Chelsea’s injury list offers relief.
THE VERDICT
Gittens is back. Estevao is close. Colwill is progressing.
Chelsea head into a massive week with better options than they’ve had in months. Now they need to use them.
