Rafa Benitez has confirmed Richarlison is in contention to start Monday’s Premier League clash at Wolverhampton Wanderers (8pm BST) – and revealed encouraging news about Abdoulaye Doucoure’s recovery from a foot injury.

Richarlison made a goalscoring return as a substitute in last weekend’s home game against Watford.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday afternoon, Benitez explained Richarlison is “not 100-per-cent fit yet” but could be ready to be named in his starting XI at Molineux, with the Blues having two further days to prepare for the game.

Doucoure will be unavailable for Monday’s match but Benitez said the influential midfielder could return after the international break, which follows the Blues’ game against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday 7 November.

Fabian Delph is training with the team again following a shoulder injury, while Yerry Mina is not expected to play against Wolves.

Benitez did not give specific fitness updates on Dominic Calvert-Lewin (quadriceps) and Andre Gomes (calf).