Blues boss Graham Potter said yesterday he was waiting to hear if his £106.8million deadline-day signing has clearance to face Fulham.
Regardless, the game at Stamford Bridge represents a chance for Chelsea to change the narrative around their season.
The Blues will kick-off in 10th place, but the outlook looks brighter. A two-week break since their 0-0 draw at Liverpool has given Potter valuable time on the training ground, as he bids to impose his methods on the squad.
Star man Reece James is back from injury, along with Raheem Sterling, Ben Chilwell and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, as the injury crisis at the club finally eases.
James, in particular, could have a huge impact. Since Potter took over, Chelsea have not lost when the rightback has played, but they have struggled badly without him.
This story is from the February 03, 2023 edition of Evening Standard.
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This story is from the February 03, 2023 edition of Evening Standard.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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