Here is your Chelsea morning digest for Friday, November 13.
Silva issues statement on future
Thiago Silva has revealed he would like to remain with Chelsea beyond this season.
The former Paris Saint-Germain defender, who is currently on international duty with Brazil, signed a one-year deal in the summer.
And the 36-year-old has impressed during the opening weeks of the season, forming a strong partnership with Kurt Zouma.
“I am very proud to be coached by someone (Frank Lampard) who was one of the best midfielders in the world and to have faced him as a player,” he said ahead of Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Venezuela.
“We exchange our ideas in the locker room and that’s a very good thing. He talks to me a lot and I try to help my best, on and off the pitch, in order to keep playing in the best possible way. I have learned in [a lot of different competitions] and I use it to help young players.
“This is my first experience in the Premier League. I hope to continue to play well and that my contract will be renewed.”
Gilmour discusses recovery from injury
After suffering a torn meniscus in July, Billy Gilmour is nearing a Chelsea return.
However, the young midfielder recognises it will be difficult to earn regular minutes given the quality added to Lampard's squad in the summer.
The youngster made his return to action for Scotland Under-21s on Thursday afternoon but was, incredibly harshly, sent off after only nine minutes following his 63rd-minute substitution.
Before the game, Gilmour discussed the injury he suffered.
He said: “It wasn't the best timing. I've been out for four months with the meniscus in my right knee but the recovery has been going well. I'm back training with the team and I've come here [with Scotland] to get some minutes hopefully.”
Gilmour was also asked about life at Chelsea. “I'm enjoying it,” he said. “It's been a great experience, great for my development to go and play with these world-class players every day. There are so many trophies in there and I'm learning every day.
“It's a good thing getting noticed for the good stuff, the right stuff. I'm just working hard to continue my form when I'm back from injury but it's going to be a hard team to get into.
"Hopefully, I get more game time and experience.”
Chelsea fans react to Chilwell absence
With several Chelsea players called up to the latest England squad, supporters couldn’t help but take notice of Gareth Southgate’s team selection for Thursday night’s friendly against Ireland.
Reece James was handed the start at right wing-back, while Mason Mount again continued in central midfield after Southgate discussed the growing obsession between the 21-year-old and Jack Grealish in his pre-match press conference.
“I suppose you’re referring to Mason, whose only crime is not to be Jack at the moment,” the England boss said. “But I’m also aware I should talk about Mason, because it keeps the memes going of me talking about him! What would Villa fans be able to do on social media if they didn’t have that opportunity?”
Perhaps most pertinently, however, was the absence of Ben Chilwell, with Chelsea fans unsure on what to think.
One fan asked: “Why is Chilwell benched?” In contrast, another said: “We should be happy to reduce the injury risk for him.” Another added: “Chilwell and Abraham rested, yes!”
