Chelsea management are pushing back the date for Romeo Lavia's debut.

The former Southampton midfielder arrived in the summer lacking match fitness and then suffered an ankle injury.

There is a belief Lavia could be fit to play next month.

However, the London Evening Standard says Blues management want to be careful with the youngster. As such, Lavia may not be risked until early December ahead of the Christmas programme.

The Belgian no longer has to wear a protective boot and before the October international break began rehab work in the pool.