Carabao Cup: Chelsea handed boost as two injured players train ahead of final showdown

Chelsea have received a boost ahead of their Carabao Cup final on Sunday as the duo of Thiago Silva and Marc Cucurella have stepped up their recovery efforts, hitting the training ground on Friday with hopes of making a comeback for the high-stakes Carabao Cup final against Liverpool. 

The anticipation is building as fans and pundits alike speculate on the potential impact of their return in a match that promises to be a thrilling encounter at Wembley Stadium.

The Blues could see the return of their defensive stalwart, Thiago Silva, in time for the Sunday showdown. After missing out on last week’s clash with Manchester City due to a groin injury sustained against Crystal Palace, the 39-year-old Brazilian has made significant strides in his recovery. 

Chelsea's camp remains hopeful, with manager Mauricio Pochettino hinting at a possible comeback. “He has the chance [to play],” Pochettino revealed in his pre-match briefing. “Tomorrow, we will see if he's ready to play in the game," the Blues boss confirmed, per Standard.co.Uk.

Silva's presence could be a game-changer for Chelsea, especially in the absence of Benoit Badiashile and with Wesley Fofana still on the injury list. 

The defense managed to hold their ground against City without Silva, but his experience and leadership could provide a much-needed boost against a Liverpool side eager to exploit any weaknesses.

Marc Cucurella, sidelined since a December defeat to Everton due to an ankle injury requiring surgery, is also inching closer to match fitness. 

The Spanish left-back participated in partial team training, though it remains uncertain if he will feature in the final. Pochettino remains cautious, stating, “I think we need to assess the players to see if they can be involved on Sunday.”

Chelsea's injury woes have been a recurring theme this season, with key players like Reece James and Fofana missing significant action. 

However, the potential return of Robert Sanchez as the No1 goalkeeper adds another layer of intrigue to the selection dilemma facing Pochettino, who has yet to reveal his final lineup. “Yes, [I have decided] who is in goal and 99 per cent of my team is in my head,” said Pochettino, keeping his cards close to his chest.

Liverpool, not without their injury troubles, will be without several key players, putting added pressure on their remaining squad to perform. 

With late fitness tests pending for Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez, and Dominik Szoboszlai, the stage is set for a dramatic clash where strategy, resilience, and perhaps a touch of luck will determine the victor in this eagerly awaited final.