Medical expert issues ‘dramatic’ Ben Chilwell claim after Chelsea training ground reveal
Ben Chilwell will see a “dramatic” reduction in his risk of re-injury if he continues to make slow and steady progress in his recovery.
That is the view of medical expert Ben Dinnery, who runs the Premier Injuries site and has a background in medicine and data analysis.
Chilwell, 25, ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament back in November.
He returned to training with Chelsea’s youth teams several weeks ago and the club confirmed on Tuesday (17 May) that he has now re-joined the senior side.
The left-back will be slowly phased into full sessions as his knee continues to recover.
And Dinnery explained why a methodical process will give Chilwell every chance of playing for England at the World Cup in Qatar later this year.
“This is the right way to go,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.
“There are no guarantees when players are returning from long-term absences, but by taking a slow and methodical approach, it puts a player in the best place possible to successfully negate the rehab period.
“He will have one eye on the World Cup. He’ll feel that’s realistic if he can get a good handful of competitive games under his belt. I’m sure Southgate will want to try him in a few friendlies before that.
“With such tight deadlines, you can’t afford to take any risks and you can’t afford any major setbacks. That impacts massively on the timeline and would end any hopes of featuring in Qatar.
“Any return in a nine-month period and there is a significant increase in the risk of re-injury. Every month after that, the risk reduces dramatically.”
Chilwell chipped in with three goals and one assist in 12 outings before injury.
Chelsea conclude their season against Watford on Sunday (22 May).
In other news, Gabby Agbonlahor hits out after Andreas Christensen twist at Chelsea.