The update around Björn describes an “incredible injury comeback”, underlining the physical and mental demands behind her return. The next step is the match itself, where the defender’s positioning and communication will be tested under pressure.
A player returning from injury often needs time to rebuild rhythm. Björn’s leadership role makes that process different. Chelsea will want her influence to be felt both during defensive transitions and when the team is building from the back.
Vice-captaincy gives Björn responsibility beyond individual duels. She can help maintain Chelsea’s shape, guide younger teammates and provide calm when Palace put pressure on the back line.
That influence is particularly important in a match framed around Chelsea’s wider WSL improvements. A clean, controlled performance would give the comeback a stronger team context, while a difficult afternoon would highlight how much work remains in turning progress into consistency.
The match is scheduled for live coverage from 11.45am on Sunday, with kick-off at 12pm. For Björn, it is a chance to move from recovery story to matchday leader.
Chelsea’s next storyline is clear: how quickly can their returning vice-captain regain full competitive sharpness, and can her authority help the side manage the demands of the WSL?