Lavia remains sidelined ahead of Chelsea vs Fulham clash

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Romeo Lavia will not feature in their Boxing Day Premier League fixture against Fulham at Stamford Bridge.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Maresca revealed that while Lavia is making progress in his recovery from injury, the midfielder is not yet fit enough to return to action.

“Romeo is still recovering. He’s much, much better,” Maresca said. “He’s already working on the pitch but unfortunately he’s not ready [for Fulham].

[It’s] the same situation [for the others].”

Lavia has always been out of action since his arrival at Chelsea and also missed the club’s goalless draw against Everton last weekend.

His absence continues to limit Maresca’s midfield options as Chelsea look to secure a much-needed win to strengthen their league position.

The Blues will hope to capitalize on their home advantage against Fulham as they push to climb the Premier League standings.