Cech ready to return
14 Jan 2007 - 12:52:59
Injured goalkeeper Petr Cech is poised to hand Chelsea a massive boost by returning to first-team action, according to Blues boss Jose Mourinho.
Cech suffered a depressed fracture of the skull in a controversial match at Reading on October 14 which was expected to keep the Czech international on the sidelines for the rest of the season.
But after stepping up his training - including a thorough workout in protective headgear on the Stamford Bridge pitch before Saturday's 4-0 win over Wigan - the 24-year-old is ready to return according to Mourinho.
"On Monday I have a £50million player ready to play because Petr Cech is ready," he said.
"I have to decide whether to keep Hilario in the goal for a couple more weeks but Petr's ready for the game."
Cech's absence has also been compounded by a long-term injury to regular number two Carlo Cudicini.
The Italian's thigh muscle problem has resulted in third-choice keeper Hilario making 18 appearances this term.