Fit-again Kante set for Chelsea return

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N’Golo Kante, Reece James and Mason Mount are expected to be passed fit to join the Chelsea squad for Saturday’s game against Aston Villa.

Kante, who has been out since August, has been back in training and boss Graham Potter indicated at a press conference on Friday afternoon that the Frenchman is likely to play at least some part this weekend.

James returned early from international duty with England early because of another injury concern, while Mount missed England’s recent matches because of an abdominal injury.


But they both trained on Friday and are expected to be available against Villa but Potter said Mount is likely to start to the game on the bench.

Kai Havertz, who pulled out of the Germany squad last week due to illness, has also been cleared to play.

“Kai had a fever but is fine now, Reece has trained in the last two sessions but Mason is probably not available to start,” Potter said.

However, Potter confirmed Wesley Fofana, who has picked up a hamstring injury, will miss out along with Raheem Sterling, Cesar Azpilicueta, Thiago Silva and keeper Edouard Mendy, who remain sidelined.

“Thiago is a bit away as is Azpi (Azpilicueta),” Potter explained.

“Christian Pulisic has had a cold and is the only one we have to check on.”