With Chelsea‘s current poor run of form, they could surely use a boost. And now, they may have just found one in the form of one of their most dangerous players. That is, of course, Hakim Ziyech, who is back in full training and is in line to make his Chelsea return against Manchester City.
Chelsea Star Hakim Ziyech Returns to Full Training
Frank Lampard Confirms Potential Minutes on Sunday Against Manchester City
Speaking to reporters ahead of the City game, Frank Lampard confirmed Ziyech’s availability.
“He’s fit to train,” the Blues boss said. “He’s trained for the last two or three days.
“I will make the decision as to whether he is ready to start.”
With Lampard unsure if Ziyech can start, it seems that Callum Hudson-Odoi will once again play on the right. Ziyech coming off the bench, though, may be just as impactful in crunch time.
Ziyech Quality Irreplaceable at Chelsea
A big reason why Chelsea have only won one of their last five is that Hakim Ziyech has been injured since early December. Unsurprisingly, their last impressive performance was in the Moroccan’s last match before his injury, a 3-1 win over Leeds United.
The promising team win was ultimately marred by the news that Ziyech had picked up a hamstring injury, and would be unavailable for a few weeks at least. It has ended up being nearly a month, but he could be back in the team against City, and they could certainly use him.
He possesses a quality that no one else at the club has, and that is his vision. He sees passes that the rest can’t, and he has the quality to execute them as well. He’s also an excellent dribbler, crosser and shooter, so his return will delight Lampard.
One of the biggest concerns for Chelsea this season has been the star players’ inability to stay fit. Christian Pulisic and Ziyech, in particular, have both been injured on two separate occasions already this season.
Given his previous track record, Lampard must manage his return effectively, so as not to risk any further injury. Chelsea cannot lose him for an extended period again, and this current form is proof of that.
With that said, Hakim Ziyech will be hoping to mark his return in style on Sunday, and hopefully can be the one to get Chelsea back on track.
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