Chelsea have received an unexpected boost as Romeo Lavia is set to serve a suspension for Belgium during the international break.
After an absence of more than three years, Lavia returned to the Belgium squad for the extended autumn international break and featured in all four Nations League fixtures. The 22-year-old was unable to complete 90 minutes in any of those matches, but he did play 85 and 87 minutes respectively during his two starts against France.
Fitness Concerns Addressed
There were concerns over his fitness when he was substituted in the first of those meetings, though Belgium head coach Mark van Bommel moved quickly to allay fears of a fresh injury setback.
"Romeo came on as a substitute against Italy and played 85 minutes against France," Van Bommel explained. "He did a fantastic job. You can already assume that I won't be starting him. Chelsea are being cautious with him, and so are we. We want to make optimal use of his qualities."
In Belgium's two victories, over Italy and France, Lavia came off the bench in both matches. A yellow card in the opening game of the international break left him walking a disciplinary tightrope for the remaining three games.
Disciplinary Rule Application
According to article 60 of the 'Regulations of the UEFA Nations League' handbook, which explains yellow and red cards, the ruling states: 'During the league phase, players and team officials are suspended for the next competition match after two yellow cards and any subsequent even-numbered yellow card (e.g. fourth, sixth).'
As Lavia was booked against France to double his yellow card count, he will be suspended for Belgium's next Nations League match against Turkey on November 12.
Since Lavia has been named in the Belgium squad for this month's internationals, he is only available for selection against Italy on November 15, which should serve as a boost for Chelsea and Xabi Alonso.
The midfielder's injury issues in the past are well documented, but he has largely managed to stay fit all season, making 10 appearances across all competitions.
