Chelsea have exercised their option to recall defender Trevoh Chalobah from his season-long loan spell at Crystal Palace. The 25-year-old returns to Stamford Bridge after making 14 appearances for the Eagles, with the decision coming as Chelsea look to strengthen their defensive options during the second half of the campaign.
Chalobah will not be available for Crystal Palace’s Premier League fixture against Leicester City following the recall. Softfootball understands Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca had previously refused to discuss the defender’s future out of respect for Palace, insisting he did not want to comment on a player still representing another club.
Earlier this season, Maresca explained why Chalobah was left out of Chelsea’s plans, saying:
It’s always sad to leave players out, but we have to take the decision.
The Italian also acknowledged the defender impressed during pre-season before eventually joining Palace on loan for regular first-team football.
The recall marks a significant turnaround for Chalobah, who had feared his future at Chelsea was uncertain. He will now hope to fight for a place in Maresca’s squad during the remainder of the season.
