Chelsea’s first team are back in action at Cobham training while the rest of us sit back in the office attempting to shake off the post-Christmas Blues as the wind howls outside.

After a few days break granted by Mauricio Pochettino, the squad returned with big smiles, ready for 2024. There were even a few fresh faces around. Carney Chukwuemeka and Ben Chilwell were observed with the main group after long periods on the sidelines.

That should put them just a few weeks away from match fitness and being ready to play again. And the fact that we have three cup games against lower league opponents coming up in the next few weeks is a great opportunity to reintroduce them to the action.

It’s been a long and agonizing wait, but both add essential depth and alternatives to the squad, and we can’t wait to watch them play: