Chelsea FC

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Cech ready to return

14 Jan 2007 - 12:52:59

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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.