Chelsea head into their crucial UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash against Paris Saint-Germain with several injury concerns that could influence their squad selection for the second leg, according to latest fitness reports.
The Blues were dealt a fresh setback following their recent Premier League defeat to Newcastle United, with several players either ruled out or facing late fitness checks ahead of the European tie.
Chelsea’s biggest blow concerns club captain Reece James, who reportedly suffered another hamstring problem after the Newcastle match and has been ruled out of the upcoming encounter.
Early indications suggest he could be sidelined for several weeks, though the full extent of the injury is still being assessed.
Fellow defender Malo Gusto is also a concern heading into the match. The Frenchman has been battling illness after featuring in Chelsea’s recent fixtures, and his availability will likely be decided after a late fitness check.
There is more encouraging news regarding young Brazilian winger Estevao Willian. The teenager has been recovering from a hamstring issue that kept him out of recent games, but has now returned to training.
He is expected to rejoin the matchday squad soon and could potentially feature against PSG if he proves his fitness in time.
Chelsea are also monitoring the situation of Jamie Gittens, who recently suffered a minor setback in his recovery from a hamstring injury.
The winger had been close to returning to action but felt discomfort after training, forcing the club to reassess his condition. His return date remains uncertain for now.
Goalkeeper Filip Jørgensen is another player under observation after picking up a minor groin problem following the first leg against PSG.
The issue kept him out of the Newcastle clash, and the club are continuing to evaluate his fitness before deciding when he can return.
Meanwhile, defender Levi Colwill is continuing his long recovery from an ACL injury suffered earlier in the campaign.
The centre-back has recently returned to training and is making steady progress, though a competitive return is more likely toward the closing stages of the season.
Chelsea have a three goal deficit from the first leg and with several key players racing against time to prove their fitness, their squad depth will be put to the test as they prepare for another demanding night in Europe.
