Key Chelsea star issues injury update after picking up injury during Arsenal clash

One of Chelsea’s most influential players has issued an injury update after a scare last time out against Arsenal. The Blues picked up a point against the Gunners to remain in the top four, with Pedro Neto scoring a long range stunner to grab a deserved equaliser.

It has been a strong start from the Blues, with Enzo Maresca finding a formula to pick up consistent results, settling on centre-back and midfield partnerships that have become the core of this Chelsea team. In the midfield, Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo have become a solid partnership, keeping the likes of Enzo Fernandez out of the starting XI for the most part.

Lavia was one of the many bold statements Chelsea have made in recent times, with the Blues spending £58million to land him from Southampton last year, but it looks as though the deal will pay off. The 20-year-old has battled his way into Maresca’s starting XI plans, and he has taken his opportunities by the scruff of the neck, looking comfortable at the top level despite his youth.

Lavia’s form means there was real concern when the midfielder limped off during the draw with Arsenal. But having linked up with the Belgian national team, hoping to get his second and third caps at senior level, the youngster has provided a positive update. “I received a little blow,” Lavia told RTL Info on international duty with Belgium. “At the moment, we are testing to see if it is okay, but it should be fine, I think.”

Lavia impresses Maresca

Speaking recently, Maresca highlighted the ‘balance’ the Lavia and Caicedo partnership is currently offering Chelsea. He said: “First of all, it’s a matter of balance. In this moment, Romeo and Moi give us physicality and strength in the middle. This is the reason why we found the option with Malo [Gusto] in the pocket.”

Meanwhile, Lavia has spoken about Maresca’s approach and how he and his teammates have adapted to the Italian’s style and demands. “From the first day he took the sessions, he was very clear on what he wanted to do and I think the players have picked up really well,” he told Stadium Astro YouTube channel. “We know we’ve still got a long way to go but it is definitely going the right direction.”

Redknapp praise

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp has also praised Lavia’s performances, saying: “He has done ever so well, he’s good on the ball, he’s comfortable. It must be a joy to play alongside someone like Caicedo.

“They have got a nice balance, great energy, they win the ball back, it will be hard to play against.”