These stories are samples pulled from external media sources. They do not represent the views or position of Chelsea Football Club.

Moment of class from Rodgers

Ex-Chelsea coach Brendan Rodgers took time out of his post-match interview with Amazon Prime to congratulate Chelsea Women’s manager Emma Hayes on all the work she has done for the women’s game.

Hayes has been instrumental in not only changing Chelsea Women’s fortunes but also the world of women’s football, and Leicester boss Rodgers was keen to praise her live on air last night.

‘I’ve worked at Chelsea and I know how great a club it is,’ the Leicester boss said. ‘She has done an amazing job for women’s football.‘All of the things you are doing is really helping women's football progress,’ Rodgers continues. ‘As a fellow coach, I've watched from the outside... you've done amazing. So well done.’

Chelsea searching for a left-back in January

After Chelsea confirmed that Ben Chilwell is set to undergo surgical repair on his knee injury, the club are now reportedly actively looking for a replacement ahead of next month’s transfer window.

Lucas Digne of Everton is being considered, according to reports in the Daily Mail.

‘Chelsea are considering a move for Everton left back Lucas Digne after ruling Ben Chilwell out for the season,’ the report states.

‘Chilwell will have surgery on his knee ligament injury after the club initially thought he could recuperate without an operation. They are now considering options with France international Digne among the names to have been discussed.’

Everton will reportedly listen to offers allowing him to leave the club after recently losing his place in the side.

‘The 28-year old Digne has not played for Everton since falling out with manager Rafa Benitez and has also been offered to Newcastle United while Napoli and Inter Milan are also among those interested,' the report continues.

‘Ajax left back Nicolas Tagliafico is another name Chelsea have talked about in recent weeks with the Dutch side open to offers for the Argentine.’

French Covid laws may impact Chelsea's Lille match

Thomas Tuchel may only be able to pick double-vaccinated players for Chelsea's away Champions League last-16 tie against Lille after the French Government confirmed double-vaccinations for professional sports people will be mandatory in the country from January 15.

This is according to reports in the Daily Mail, which highlights how this decision affecting teams such as Chelsea will impact their preparations.

‘New coronavirus restrictions in France could cause problems for non-French teams competing in the country in 2022 - including the England rugby team and Chelsea,’ the story states.

‘France president Emmanuel Macron announced that full, double-vaccinations will be mandatory for professional sports people in the country from January 15 under new Covid rules.

‘A decision will be made 'within days' on how the new Covid-19 rules will affect non-French teams competing in the country.’