FOOTBALL
Posted on February 21, 2026 8:00 pm | Updated on February 21, 2026 1:10 pm
Chelsea and Liam Rosenior have been given a big injury boost at a crucial stage of the season. Just as pressure begins to rise in the Premier League race, there is finally some positive news on the injury front. Burnley is set to arrive at Stamford Bridge on the weekend. The timing could not be better for the Blues as they look to turn promise into consistency.
Injury Boost At The Perfect Time For Liam Rosenior
Chelsea return home aiming to build on their FA Cup win at Hull City. Meanwhile, they’ll be trying to forget their recent Premier League draw against Leeds United. The mood around Stamford Bridge has been cautious despite signs of quality. Mixed form at home and tough results against Burnley mean nobody inside the camp is taking this lightly.
The biggest good news for comes in midfield. Romeo Lavia completed 45 minutes for the Blues’ Under-21s in their Premier League 2 meeting with Leeds United on Friday. It was his first competitive appearance since November 5. He was out with a quad problem that forced him off early during a European game.
For months, the west London club have been careful with the Belgian. Injuries have affected his progress ever since his £58 million move. Since arriving in west London, he has managed only 30 appearances across all competitions. That lack of continuity has been frustrating for both player and club.
Liam Rosenior has started his time as Chelsea manager with four successive Premier League wins.
If the Blues beat Leeds and Burnley at home, he'll match Carlo Ancelotti's club record. pic.twitter.com/iCULDioulp
— Sports Illustrated FC (@SI_FootballClub) February 9, 2026
Though on Friday, there were some good signs. Lavia looked sharp on the ball and calm under pressure as the young Blues took control in the first half. A clean attacking move down the right led to an own goal that gave Chelsea the advantage. There was a brief scare when a mistimed sliding tackle left Lavia on the ground. But, he quickly got back to his feet and carried on without issue.
Senior club figures were watching closely. Cole Palmer, Liam Delap, Benoit Badiashile, Malo Gusto and Wesley Fofana were among those present along with head coach Liam Rosenior. Their presence showed how seriously this comeback is being treated. The football club is not rushing his recovery. But, the fact that he managed a full half is a big step forward.
Burnley Clash Comes With Added Pressure
Saturday’s league game carries weight beyond just the three points. Chelsea seem favourites and Burnley have already suffered heavy defeats this season. However, pressure remains as this campaign has been unpredictable.
Momentum from the FA Cup win needs to carry into league action. That 4-0 display showed fluency and confidence from the team. The challenge now is converting that intensity into another strong performance at home. Lavia’s slow return gives Rosenior options in the midfield. Even if he is not thrown straight into the starting eleven, knowing he is close changes the dynamic.
In addition, competition in midfield increases. When players see teammates fighting back from setbacks, it helps improve the group mindset. Lavia’s return feels like more than just another squad update. It signals intent inside a dressing room that has dealt with repeated injury blows.
Chelsea supporters will watch closely this weekend. Lavia is edging back to full fitness and confidence is growing. The Blues have a genuine opportunity to steady their season and push forward with belief.
Manager Balances Team With Optimism
Rosenior is handling his squad’s situation very carefully. The players are following a proper recovery plan. It is designed to reduce the risk of further issues. The Blues know they have quality and it is their top advantage. They only need consistent form at the moment.
When they have all their stars, the players offer control and balance throughout the squad. This helps the team read danger early and keep possession. That gives their attacking players freedom to move higher.
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add Six Sports as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Add as a preferred source on Google
Mentioned in this Article
Recommended for you