Chelsea have been handed an unexpected boost, with Romeo Lavia set to serve a suspension for Belgium.

Following an absence of more than three years, Lavia returned to the Belgium squad for the extended autumn international break and featured in all four Nations League fixtures.

While the 22-year-old was unable to complete 90 minutes during the Nations League quadruple-header, he did play 85 and 87 minutes respectively during his two starts against France.

However, there were concerns over his fitness upon being substituted in the first of those meetings - though Belgium head coach Mark van Bommel was quick to allay any such fears of a fresh injury setback.

"Romeo came on as a substitute against Italy and played 85 minutes against France,” Van Bommel explained.

“He did a fantastic job. You can already assume that I won't be starting him.

“Chelsea are being cautious with him, and so are we. We want to make optimal use of his qualities.”

In Belgium’s two victories - over Italy and Belgium - Lavia came off the bench in both, though being shown a yellow card in the opening game of the international break left him walking the disciplinary tight-rope for the remaining three games.

As per article 60 of the ‘Regulations of the UEFA Nations League’ handbook explaining yellow and red cards, the ruling states: ‘During the league phase, players and team officials are suspended for the next competition match after two yellow cards and any subsequent even-numbered yellow card (e.g. fourth, sixth).’

As Lavia was booked against France to double his yellow card count, it means he will be suspended for Belgium’s next Nations League match against Turkey on November 12.

As Lavia has been named in the Belgium squad for this month’s internationals, he is only available for selection against Italy on November 15 which should serve as a boost for Chelsea and Xabi Alonso.

The midfielder’s injury issues in the past are well documented, but has largely managed to stay fit all season, making 10 appearances across all competitions.