Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku has been earmarked to return in the coming week.

The French attacker has been absent from recent games due to a hip problem.

Nkunku, who only returned this winter from a long-term knee issue, is seen as the jewel in the Blues' attack.

Per The Mail, his hip is recovering very nicely and he will take part in training this week.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino will then have to decide how to ease him back into the team for the coming games.

Chelsea next play on January 23rd against Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup semi final second leg.