Ben Chilwell Set for Chelsea Return For Carabao Cup Match Against Barrow After Enzo Maresca U-Turn

The latest Chelsea team news indicates that Ben Chilwell is poised to make a comeback for the Blues against Barrow in the Carabao Cup, following a U-turn from manager Enzo Maresca.

The 27-year-old defender, who was linked with a summer move away from Stamford Bridge, has been reintegrated into the first-team squad after a period of exile.

Previously part of the so-called “bomb squad” alongside other out-of-favour players like Raheem Sterling, Chilwell’s inclusion in the Premier League squad is a significant development.

Maresca, who has hinted at Chilwell’s involvement in the Barrow match, has emphasised the importance of giving fringe players an opportunity to showcase their abilities.

The Italian manager has stated that the Carabao Cup fixture is a chance for players to earn minutes and potentially make a case for more regular playing time.

Speaking ahead of the Barrow clash, Maresca said, “I think so (Chilwell will be involved). Hopefully, we can give him some minutes tomorrow.

“The idea for him was to leave. At the moment that he’s here, he’s one of the squad; he’s training. He will be in the squad tomorrow, and hopefully we can give him some minutes.”

Chilwell’s last appearance for Chelsea came in April’s FA Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester City. The fullback will be eager to impress against Barrow and reclaim his place in the starting lineup.

Chelsea Team News: Maresca To Give Fringe Players Opportunity

Maresca has also indicated that he will hand opportunities to several other fringe players, emphasising the importance of providing them with playing time.

“They are players that train every day very well, but unfortunately I cannot give them chances,” he said.

“All the players that are not getting so many chances, tomorrow is a good chance for them to get minutes and to hopefully win a game.”

This could suggest that Mykhailo Mudryk could also feature in the match, having seen limited playing time this season.

As Chelsea look to rebuild under Maresca, the Carabao Cup clash against Barrow presents an opportunity for several players to prove their worth and potentially earn a more prominent role in the team’s future.