Ben Chilwell has been handed a Chelsea lifeline after head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed he is under consideration for selection after returning to training with the first team.

Jabbing a finger into his own chest as he ran towards the travelling Chelsea supporters at the Vitality Stadium, Christopher Nkunku ’s energy in celebrating his winning goal over Bournemouth was as much angry defiance as pure jubilation.

Enzo Maresca revealed Chelsea are preparing to splash the cash in January on incomings to close the gap to Arsenal and Manchester City.