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Chelsea Team News: Reece James and Levi Colwill Push for Nottingham Forest Return
Stamford Bridge Waits on Defensive Boost
Chelsea approach Monday’s meeting with Nottingham Forest with the possibility of two significant returns sharpening the mood around Stamford Bridge. Reece James and Levi Colwill are both pushing to be involved, with a final decision expected close to kick-off.
After being given three days off following last weekend’s FA Cup semi-final win against Leeds, Chelsea’s squad has returned to first-team training. James and Colwill have joined the group, offering interim head coach McFarlane timely encouragement before facing an in-form Nottingham Forest side.
Colwill’s situation carries particular weight. The defender has yet to play a senior minute this season after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament injury in Chelsea’s first pre-season training session. James, meanwhile, had been fit throughout the campaign before suffering a hamstring injury in March’s home defeat to Newcastle, leaving him sidelined for six weeks.
McFarlane Keeps Selection Door Open
McFarlane said the pair could “potentially” be in the squad for Monday’s game at Stamford Bridge. “Reece is back in training, Levi is back in training – both looking good,” he said. “We’ve got a little way away from the game [on Monday], so both are looking good. We’ll see how it goes.”
Asked whether one was ahead of the other, he said: “Not really. We’re taking it day by day. Reece had a really good run and got injured but is looking good.”
Chelsea Choices Against Nottingham Forest
Chelsea are expected to go strong against Nottingham Forest, with McFarlane weighing up several key calls. Malo Gusto may drop to the bench if James is fit enough to start, while the attacking structure remains intriguing.
Cole Palmer could be used from the right, although Pedro Neto may continue there, allowing Palmer to operate centrally. In midfield, Romeo Lavia could partner Moises Caicedo, though Andrey Santos remains another option alongside the Ecuadorian.
Predicted Chelsea XI and Match Details
Chelsea predicted XI, 4-2-3-1: Sanchez; Gusto, Tosin, Chalobah, Cucurella; Lavia, Caicedo; Palmer, Fernandez, Neto; Joao Pedro.
Injured: Estevao, Jorgensen, Gittens.
Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest takes place at 3pm BST on Monday May 4, 2026.
