Chelsea will look to lift themselves when they host Everton on Monday night. Mauricio Pochettino will hope to get back to winning ways after a disappointing 2-2 draw against lowly Sheffield United on Sunday evening. Those dropped points have landed a massive blow to their European ambition.
Captain Reece James is yet to kick a ball this year having been forced to take surgery to correct a troublesome hamstring problem that has threatened to hamper his career. In his absence, Malo Gusto has seized his chance and established himself as one of the team’s stars.
The young French defender was however missing when Chelsea were held at Bramall Lane with Pochettino revealing that he was ill. He makes a big difference to the Chelsea team and Axel Disasi who has played mainly as a centre-back drifted wide to play as a full-back.
Cole Palmer was also subbed off the second half with concerns that he might have picked up a knock, but manager Pochettino confirmed his substitution was tactical. He told reporters after the game. “No no he is not injured it was just tactical.”
There is general sympathy towards Pochettino given the number of injuries his team has suffered but after spending close to £1bn, Chelsea want to return to playing European football. They are in the semi-final of the FA Cup which could be a route to the Europa League if they can win and can still qualify for the UEFA Europa Conference League but they will need to stay winning games.
So ahead of Monday night’s game, below is the list of injured players and their potential return dates.
1. Axel Disasi
Missed the first game of his Chelsea career due to injury. But reports are that it's not that serious and could be back for the game against Manchester City | Getty Images
2. Wesley Fofana
He will not play again this season due to a knee injury. | Getty Images
3. Reece James during
Hasn't kicked a ball this year but is determined to play again before the season runs out. | Getty Images
4. Enzo Fernandez
Missed the game against Everton and is now reported to be thinking of having surgery. No return date as of yet. | Getty Images