Chelsea Women head coach Sonia Bompastor has delivered an update on Naomi Girma’s injury situation ahead of Sunday’s Women’s Super League clash against Crystal Palace, while raising hopes that summer signing Manaka Matsukubo could make her first appearance for the Blues.
Chelsea head into the London derby in impressive form, having recorded five consecutive victories in the WSL. Their most recent three league wins came against London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United and Arsenal, and Bompastor will be eager to see her side extend that run against newly promoted Crystal Palace.
However, the Blues will have to continue without Girma, who is currently recovering from a calf injury. The American defender has missed Chelsea’s recent victories, and the latest assessment suggests her absence could continue for several more weeks.
Speaking at her pre-match press conference on Thursday, Bompastor explained that Girma’s recovery remains the priority, although the club has not established a firm return date.
The Chelsea manager confirmed that the defender is undergoing rehabilitation and is making progress with the work required to recover from the problem. Nevertheless, supporters will have to wait for further updates before knowing when she will be available again.
Girma’s continued absence represents a setback for Chelsea, given the quality and defensive strength she can offer. The club will be keen to ensure she returns fully fit rather than rush her back into competitive action.
Matsukubo Could Make Her Chelsea Debut
While Girma’s situation brings disappointing news, there is a potential boost elsewhere in the squad, with Matsukubo emerging as a possible option for Sunday's encounter.
The Japanese midfielder, who joined Chelsea during the summer, has yet to make her first-team debut after missing recent matches through injury. Her availability for selection would give Bompastor another option as Chelsea look to maintain their momentum in domestic competition.
Bompastor indicated that Matsukubo could be considered for the Crystal Palace fixture, although her involvement has not been guaranteed.
The potential debut would be an important opportunity for the summer recruit to begin establishing herself at Chelsea and demonstrate what she can contribute to the team.
The head coach also suggested that, aside from Girma’s situation, she expects to have the rest of her squad available for the weekend fixture.
Captain Erin Cuthbert Returns to Action
Another positive development for Chelsea is the return of captain Erin Cuthbert, who has already made her comeback after a spell on the sidelines.
The midfielder featured as a substitute during Chelsea’s emphatic 6-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge, marking her first appearance since officially taking over the captaincy for the current season.
Her return provides Bompastor with additional experience, leadership and energy in midfield as the Blues prepare for another demanding London derby.
Cuthbert’s growing involvement could prove valuable as Chelsea seek to maintain their winning rhythm and manage the demands of a busy campaign.
With the captain back in action and Matsukubo potentially available, Chelsea have reasons for optimism despite Girma’s injury setback.
Chelsea Target Another WSL Victory
Sunday’s meeting with Crystal Palace presents Chelsea with another opportunity to strengthen their position in the Women’s Super League and continue their impressive run of results.
Bompastor’s side have demonstrated their ability to overcome difficult opponents in recent weeks, including victories against several London rivals. Crystal Palace, meanwhile, will be determined to make their mark following promotion to the top flight.
Chelsea will enter the contest aiming to combine their attacking quality with defensive discipline while making the most of the options available to their manager.
The main concern remains Girma’s recovery, but the possible involvement of Matsukubo and Cuthbert’s return offer encouraging signs for the reigning contenders as they prepare for Sunday's derby.
For Chelsea supporters, attention will now turn to the team selection and whether Matsukubo gets the opportunity to make her long-awaited debut in blue.