CHELSEA have been handed a huge boost ahead of this weekend’s trip to Everton with Antonio Rudiger fit for selection.
The defender, 26, returned from a knee injury against Wolves in September.
Antonio Rudiger is set to be fit to play against Everton at the weekendCredit: AFP
But Rudiger lasted just 45 minutes before pulling up with a groin problem.
And he is yet to feature under new boss Frank Lampard since then.
However, the Germany international could be in line to start at Goodison Park this weekend, giving the Blues a mental lift ahead of their busy winter schedule.
Chelsea have conceded 21 Premier League goals this season, more than the likes of top four rivals Liverpool, Leicester and Man City.
Even the likes of Wolves, Man Utd, Crystal Palace and Sheffield United have better defensive records.
And Fikayo Tomori, Andreas Christensen and Kurt Zouma will now have to battle it out amongst each other for a spot alongside fan favourite Rudiger.
Meanwhile, SunSport can exclusively reveal Olivier Giroud is set to stay at Chelsea this winter.
The striker is approaching the final six months of his contract and was eyeing a January exit after featuring just seven times this season.
However, there are no clubs interested in paying a fee for the former Arsenal man.
And Giroud will remain at Stamford Bridge until he available to leave on a free transfer next summer.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk