Chelsea captain Reece James a few days ago hinted that he was on his way back to full fitness and manager Mauricio Pochettino will hope that he’s fit enough to at least help in the run-in as they chase European football next season.
Hopes of an unlikely FA Cup win were dashed after a 1-0 defeat to Manchester City at Wembley over the weekend but for large parts, Chelsea were the better side, creating the best chances and finding a way to miss them.
All hope is not lost though if they can find consistency in the league. Before the game against City, they had gone eight without a defeat and destroyed Everton 6-0, so there is a real chance to finish in a Europa League spot or at least a Conference League position for next season.
The Blues could go as high as seventh on the league table if they can beat Mikel Arteta’s side by a huge margin on Tuesday night. Arsenal themselves responded to their disappointing Champions League exit with a 2-0 win over Wolves as they look to push Manchester City all the way for the league title.
When these two teams met at Stamford Bridge, it ended 2-2 despite Chelsea racing to a 2-0 lead, so expect goals and drama when these two teams meet at the Emirates so much at stake for both sides.
Chelsea have had injury issues all season- so who and who is likely to return for this potential season-defining game in north London for the Blues?
1. Robert Sanchez
Missed the FA Cup game due to illness. Strange one given he was training earlier in the week. Expected to be part of the team in North London.
2. Levi Colwill
He's battling a troublesome toe injury that has kept him out in the last five weeks. He's back in training now and might be involved at the Emirates.
3. Christopher Nkunku
Chelsea say he's back in partial training. Not likely to be involved for at least another two weeks but still likely to be play before the season comes to an end.
4. Wesley Fofana
An ACL injury suffered means he won't play again this season. A total write-off of a campaign for the French defender.