Chelsea receive injury boost as Benoit Badiashile and Josh Acheampong near return

According to The Athletic's David Ornstein, both players - who picked up knocks against Liverpool - are expected to return to training soon, easing some of the club's growing defensive concerns.

The news will come as a relief to manager Enzo Maresca, whose side have been plagued by injuries throughout the season, particularly in central defence.

Levi Colwill, widely regarded as Chelsea's best centre-back, could miss the remainder of the campaign, while Wesley Fofana and Tosin Adarabioyo remain sidelined.

With so many absentees, Chelsea's performances have inevitably suffered, and Maresca has faced the difficult task of reshuffling his backline week after week.

However, Trevoh Chalobah's return from suspension and the encouraging display of Jorrel Hato against Liverpool offer the manager more stability going forward.

In the short term, Maresca is expected to have a few more options available for the next fixture - a welcome change after several matches of forced experimentation.

Looking ahead, the January transfer window could still see movement. The club's most pressing need remains at centre-back, though reports differ on whether Chelsea will pursue reinforcements.

Supporters have called for an addition, but with ownership known for making independent and unconventional decisions, nothing is guaranteed. 

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