Jadon Sancho has handed Chelsea a much-needed injury boost as the Premier League returns, following a period of uncertainty surrounding his fitness. The winger, who had made an impressive start to his Chelsea career with an assist in each of his first three appearances, has been sidelined since mid-October due to a combination of illness and ineligibility to face his parent club, Manchester United.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca confirmed earlier that Sancho was recovering from an illness and had also suffered a knock in training, which ruled him out of their 1-1 draw with Arsenal. “He is recovering from illness. He had a knock in the session. He is out for [Arsenal game], and we will see if he is available after the international break,” Maresca had said at the time.

However, Sancho has now been spotted back in training, signaling that he could be available for Chelsea’s upcoming match against Leicester City on Saturday. This is a significant positive for Maresca, who has been dealing with a series of injury concerns within his squad.

One of the more pressing worries for the Blues is the fitness of Cole Palmer. The England international withdrew from international duty during the break due to injury, leaving Maresca hopeful but uncertain about his availability for the Leicester clash. Palmer has been a key figure in Chelsea’s attack, and his absence would be a major blow to the team.

Romeo Lavia is also recovering from injury and is hoping to be fit for the Leicester game, alongside Palmer. Meanwhile, Chelsea continue to deal with the longer-term absences of Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, and Omari Kellyman, further complicating Maresca’s squad selection as he aims to build momentum after the international break.

With Sancho potentially available, Maresca’s options are starting to improve, offering a lift to Chelsea as they look to get back on track in the Premier League.