Chelsea star thanks fans on much-awaited injury return vs Fulham

Ben Chilwell thanks Chelsea fans for their support after his return vs Fulham

Chelsea vice-captain Ben Chilwell returned to action against Fulham after a big spell on the sidelines. The left-back replaced Raheem Sterling in the 77^th minute and operated from the left wing.

Chilwell suffered a hamstring injury after the start of the new season and remained out for the first half of the campaign and his return will be a big boost for Mauricio Pochettino, who was left with no left-backs.

Marc Cucurella is also sidelined until February after the player picked up an ankle injury. Chelsea’s injury problem has been a massive headache for the club which doesn’t seem to stop,

The club’s performance in the Premier League has been impacted by players getting injured whenever one player returns from an injury. Chilwell’s return was very valuable for us, and the player thanked fans and told Chelsea’s website:

‘‘It was great to be back out there helping the team. It’s felt like a long time [being out], but I had a great reception from the fans, so thanks to them for that, and it was just great to be back out on the pitch.”

Since Chilwell is the most creative and experienced player, it is unlikely that he will play as a left-back even after his return. Instead, he probably will function as a left-winger, which can be frustrating at times. Levi Colwill will continue to play as a left-back because Mauricio Pochettino is limited in his options and prefers to deploy a player with more experience in attack.

Since Mykhaylo Mudryk appears to be transforming into a better player and should be given as many opportunities as possible to improve, other young players shouldn’t be denied opportunities as this will only help the forward further develop his skills. Young players should be trusted by Pochettino, and maybe some of them will emerge to prove themselves.

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Although Noni Madueke, another exceptional player, has only played in a few games this season, he is only one goal behind Mudryk, demonstrating that these young players are never afraid to perform when given the opportunity.