Chelsea’s injury concerns are easing as they prepare to host Leicester City at Stamford Bridge this weekend. After a difficult spell of just one win in five games that saw Chelsea drop out of the top four and crash out of the FA Cup, the Blues regained momentum with a dominant win over Southampton.

The visit of Leicester, a team fighting for survival, presents Chelsea with an opportunity to build on that victory before a crucial clash against Arsenal ahead of the March international break.

Chelsea’s backline has been hit hardest by injuries, with Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile yet to feature in 2025. However, both defenders have returned to full training, and Fofana was an unused substitute against Southampton, signalling his readiness to return. Trevoh Chalobah, sidelined since limping off against Aston Villa last month, is also available again, having been part of the squad for the midweek Europa Conference League tie against FC Copenhagen.

Romeo Lavia has not played since sustaining an injury in the 2-2 draw with Bournemouth in January. Initially expected to be out until April, the Belgian midfielder has made significant progress and is already back in training, providing a timely boost to Enzo Maresca’s squad.

Chelsea remain short in attack, with both Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke sidelined. Jackson has not played since the 2-1 win over West Ham, with Marc Guiu also picking up an injury in the same game, leaving the team without a natural striker. However, Jackson is expected to return for the Tottenham fixture on April 3.

Madueke, who has been out for the last three games due to a hamstring injury, is following a similar recovery timeline. In their absence, Pedro Neto is set to continue leading the attack.

Predicted Chelsea XI vs Leicester City

Jorgensen, James, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella, Fernandez, Caicedo, Sancho, Palmer, Nkunku, Neto

Chelsea vs Leicester City kicks off at 2pm on Sunday, March 9 at Stamford Bridge.