Chelsea consider recalling duo from unsuccessful loan spells

Chelsea new boy Joao Felix endured a nightmare start to his Stamford Bridge spell on Thursday as he was sent off for a high tackle on Fulham’s Kenny Tete. 

The Portuguese had been arguably the most impressive player on the pitch prior to his dismissal, but The Blues ultimately slumped to yet another defeat, this time against their west London rivals.

The 2-1 loss has put even more pressure on manager Graham Potter, who has guided his side to just one win in their last 11 games across all competitions.

Felix is the fourth signing that Chelsea have made already this window, with David Datro Fofana, Benoit Badiashile and Andrey Santos having already arrived at Stamford Bridge.

In terms of outgoings, it appears that Potter could be ready to let one of his young stars leave.

According to The Evening Standard, Chelsea could recall duo Harvey Vale and Xavier Simons from loan spells at Championship club Hull City.

The pair, both 19, have struggled for senior game time ever since moving to Hull, with Vale having started one Championship match and Simons yet to make his first league start.

Vale is heading back to Cobham

With that in mind, The Blues are reportedly set to recall Vale, who will spend the remainder of the campaign with Chelsea’s under-21s.

The England under-20 international has already played for The Blues’ under-21s in the Checkatrade Trophy this season, so is therefore unable to play for a third team, as per the current rules.

Vale made his senior debut for Chelsea last term, making five appearances across the domestic cup competitions.

Simons, meanwhile, has only played twice for The Tigers but has been the subject of interest from clubs looking to sign the teenager.

The report claims that The Tigers are keen to sign the midfielder permanently, while clubs including Salford City, Charlton Athletic and Leyton Orient have all offered the player loan spells with the promise of more regular game time.

Hull boss Liam Rosenior has allegedly told Simons that his playing time will improve, in an effort to ensure that the player stays put.

The England under-19 international also made his Blues debut last season, playing 65 minutes in a 2-0 win over Brentford in the Carabao Cup.