Chelsea have received a timely injury boost ahead of their FA Cup third-round match against Morecambe, with Reece James and Romeo Lavia declared fit for selection.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Blues head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed the positive news. “They are both available. They can get some minutes for tomorrow’s game,” Maresca said.

Despite the returns, Chelsea will still be without important players Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. Fofana is facing an extended recovery period of 12-16 weeks, although Maresca revealed the defender’s optimism for an earlier return. “Wes is thinking he can recover sooner than that. We are all happy if he could, but we will see,” Maresca added.

The Blues, looking to end a four-game winless streak, will be heavy favorites against League Two strugglers Morecambe. With James and Lavia back in contention, Chelsea will aim to kickstart their campaign and progress to the next round of the competition.