As the 2024/25 season enters it’s second half, Chelsea are beginning to feel the effects of injuries as they start to stumble with their results.
The win against Wolves on Monday night brought a lot of relief to those at Stamford Bridge, with it being their first in six attempts in the Premier League.
Enzo Maresca was forced to name a unique starting side and bench for the recent game, after injuries kept Enzo Fernandez, Romeo Lavia and Levi Colwill out of action.
This saw Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall start in the Premier League for the first time, with him reportedly available for the right offer in January.
Enzo Maresca must recall Lesley Ugochukwu from his loan away from Chelsea
With the former Leicester City man one of those who has regularly not been trusted in big games, the Blues need to make a big decision when it comes to potential reinforcements this month.
An easy deal to do would be simply recalling Lesley Ugochukwu from his loan at Southampton, a side who look certain to be relegated this season.
The Saints are reportedly worried Chelsea could recall Ugochukwu, and have brought back their own loanee in Shea Charles in anticipation.
Maresca wants a new midfielder this month, and is even willing for one of those to be a player who is currently on loan away from the club.
If he doesn’t though, the Blues seriously risk dropping out of the top four, and finishing there would put his job as Chelsea manager in serious jeopardy.
Enzo Fernandez and Romeo Lavia injury updates
While Enzo Fernandez was not in the squad to face Wolves, he is reportedly going to return very soon from his knock.
However, Romeo Lavia is set to be out for a number of weeks, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to rely on him as a first team option due to his fitness woes.
There was not a recognised central midfielder on the bench on Monday night, and cover in every position is something that the club have been keen to have in the first team.
A new midfielder is desperately needed for the rest of this summer, and recalling Ugochukwu provides the perfect opportunity to save on a big transfer fee.
