Chelsea’s pre-season tour of the United States will proceed without two players, Omari Kellyman and Djordje Petrovic, who are both recovering from injuries at the club’s training facility, Cobham.
Kellyman, an 18-year-old midfielder who joined Chelsea from Aston Villa for £20 million this summer, has opted to stay behind to focus on his recovery.
His injury is not considered severe, and he aims to be fit for the start of the season next month.
Similarly, Petrovic’s injury is not deemed serious, and the Serbian international goalkeeper might join the squad in the United States later in the tour if his recovery progresses well.
Petrovic was the primary goalkeeper under Mauricio Pochettino in the latter half of last season.
However, there were some unexpected absences in the squad, notably Trevoh Chalobah and Alfie Gilchrist.
Chalobah’s exclusion raises questions about his future at Chelsea, as the club is reportedly open to offers for the centre-back despite his contract running for another four years.
Chalobah has attracted interest from various Premier League and international clubs.
Gilchrist’s absence might lead to a temporary move, with Chelsea considering loan offers for the young defender who impressed last season.
Championship clubs, including Leeds United, are monitoring Gilchrist’s situation closely.
On a positive note, both Josh Acheampong and Tyrique George have been included in the 28-man squad.
Acheampong made his senior debut last season, while George was named on the bench for three matches towards the end of the season.
The absence of Kellyman and Petrovic is a precautionary measure to ensure their injuries do not worsen.
Chelsea is taking a cautious approach to ensure the players are fully fit for the start of the season.
The inclusion of Acheampong and George in the squad is a positive development, as it provides them with an opportunity to gain valuable experience and impress the coaching staff.
The situation with Chalobah and Gilchrist is uncertain, and it remains to be seen whether they will leave the club permanently or temporarily.
Chelsea’s pre-season tour of the United States will provide an opportunity for the players to gel and prepare for the upcoming season.
