How close is Petr Cech to a sensational return to top-flight action?

Petr Cech is still someway off a remarkable return to first-team action for Chelsea, despite making an appearance in Premier League 2.

The 38-year-old, who hung up his gloves 18 months ago, stepped into the breach on Monday night as the Blues' development squad came from behind to beat rivals Tottenham.

It brought the question of the possibility of returning to action with Frank Lampard's squad, but it appears that the likelihood of such an event is slim to none.

According to the Athletic, Cech remains fifth in the pecking order at Stamford Bridge, despite his call-up on Monday.

They state that, as well as Edouard Mendy, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Willy Caballero, Croatian teenager Karlo Ziger is also considered ahead of the former No 1.

The decision to give him game time on Monday was suggested by Neil Bath, the head of Chelsea's youth development. It was believed it was also to avoid Lucas Bergstrom playing twice in the  space of two days.

The 18-year-old Finn had appeared for the Under 18s over the weekend.

Cech still takes part in training with Chelsea's first team and is a part of the first-team bubble.

However, he is not selected for training matches ahead of the likes of Kepa and Caballero, with his main contribution coming when the top keepers are away on international duty.

Due to the current situation, however, it is not completely unforseeable that a Covid-19 outbreak could bring his return closer to fruition.