Brief
Chelsea’s Lavia and Penders named in Belgium squad despite injury concerns
Both players were fit enough for the matchday squad, though Lavia did not start against Turkey and Penders remains uncapped.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia and reserve goalkeeper Mike Penders were named in Belgium's Nations League squad, according to Standard. Lavia entered the game against Turkey after an hour, replacing Hans Vanaken, and later played 85 minutes against France, with coach Van Bommel praising his performance. The club said it is being cautious with Lavia, who did not start the 3-0 win over Turkey. Penders, a £17 million signing from Genk in 2025, was on the bench for the same fixtures after missing the Italy and France matches. Manchester United’s Senne Lammens has kept two clean sheets in three appearances during the break, suggesting Penders may wait longer for his Belgium debut. Chelsea hopes both will be fit for the Premier League return next weekend.
Key facts
- Romeo Lavia replaced Hans Vanaken after the hour mark in Belgium's 3-0 win over Turkey (standard.co.uk)
- Lavia played 85 minutes against France, earning praise from Van Bommel (standard.co.uk)
- Mike Penders, a £17 million goalkeeper signed from Genk in 2025, was on the bench for the Nations League fixtures (standard.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] standard.co.uk — originally reported as “Chelsea double boost confirmed as midfielder plays and £17m signing returns”
