Carvalho close to return

[Aesthetic Relic 301]

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Carvalho unlikely to tackle Toffees

Chelsea coach Luiz Felipe Scolari is unlikely to have defender Ricardo Carvalho fit for Monday night's Premier League trip to Everton.

The Portugal defender is recovering from a knee injury, but Scolari may hold him back for the Boxing Day clash with West Brom at Stamford Bridge.

Michael Essien (knee) and Franco Di Santo (hamstring) are out, as Chelsea look to continue their 100% away record on Merseyside. Florent Malouda is doubtful with a thigh strain.

I wouldnt play him against West Brom either tbh. The games after that are against Fulham and Southend, games we should have no worries in. I'd keep him for the Manure game in the new year to make sure he's 100% fit. We dont need to risk him.

[EskWeston 696]

He will only be played when 100% ready. We have no need to rush him back. Alex and Ivanovic are more that able replacements. It will be good to have in the new year a fully fit squad to have a good crack at all the competitions we are left in.

[Aesthetic Relic 301]

It will be good to have in the new year a fully fit squad to have a good crack at all the competitions we are left in.

Essien's also been reported to be doing light training and a January return is likely.

[Kez 2,727]

Will be good to have him and Essien back so good to hear