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Christopher Nkunku and Romeo Lavia could make their Chelsea debuts against Brighton on Sunday after being spotted in training as Mauricio Pochettino hints both are 'close' to match fitness

Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has described Christopher Nkunku and Romeo Lavia as 'close' to returns from injury - and they could make their debuts against Brighton on Sunday.

£52million signing Nkunku has yet to make his competitive Chelsea bow after suffering a serious knee injury during pre-season which required surgery.

Fellow summer arrival Lavia, bought from Southampton for £53m, has also yet to play having suffered an ankle problem.

Both players have returned to training, with a club statement telling fans that the duo would 'progress with the reconditioning phase of his rehabilitation'.