Neto and Badiashile return to boost Chelsea's options ahead of Burnley clash

The pair's progress hands the Chelsea head coach welcome selection headaches for Saturday's Premier League trip to Turf Moor, where the Blues face a Burnley side back in the top flight after securing promotion last season.

Chelsea, sitting third in the Premier League table with games in hand on the teams above them, head into matchweek 12 looking to maintain their strong form. Burnley, meanwhile, are battling to establish themselves after returning to the division as one of the promoted teams.

Recovery Updates from Cobham

Chelsea's injury list has eased significantly in recent weeks, and Monday's session provided further positive news. Badiashile, sidelined since early October with a muscle issue sustained against Liverpool, rejoined the main group after a period of individual work. Sources at the training ground described the French centre-back as "sharp and fully involved" in defensive drills, signalling he is in contention for the weekend.

Neto's return was equally encouraging. The Portuguese winger picked up a groin knock during the recent 3-0 win over his former club Wolves and was withdrawn from international duty as a precaution. Having rested fully during the break, he trained without restrictions on Monday, with club staff noting his "energy and sharpness" were back to pre-injury levels.

Selection Dilemmas for Maresca

The recoveries give Maresca greater flexibility, particularly in defence where he has rotated pairings throughout the opening months. With Badiashile now available alongside Josh Acheampong, Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana, and summer signing Jorrel Hato, Chelsea boast a fully fit pool of senior centre-backs for the first time this season. Tosin Adarabioyo also remains an option, further intensifying competition.

In attack, Neto's availability adds depth on the wings, though Estevao Willian, the teenage summer arrival from Palmeiras, has impressed in recent weeks and earned rave reviews for his Brazil performances during the break. Maresca may ease Neto back gradually rather than rush him into the starting lineup.

With momentum building and a demanding December fixture list looming, including a Champions League tie against Barcelona, these returns strengthen Chelsea's squad depth at a crucial stage. Saturday's encounter at Turf Moor will offer the first glimpse of how Maresca integrates his returning players as the Blues push to close the gap at the top.

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