Thomas Tuchel confirmed the absence of Reece James and the return of Ruben Loftus-Cheek to the squad ahead of the Crystal Palace game tomorrow.
Reece is out with a hamstring injury will continue to be sidelined.
The Blues boss said: “We always have the risk with a very physical player like Reece, that you have to consider that there is sometimes a delay in comeback. He’s progressing a lot in individual training. The plan is that he rejoins the group next week.
“Once he is in the team training, that he is ready to be under a certain amount of pressure and freedom of movement. I don’t know (when he will return). I hope he will come back to team training next week, next step, then I can give you more.”
While talking about Ruben, Tuchel said: “He had problems with his Achilles, not a big injury, but painful. Since he is back, he is very strong. I can see that he feels free. He is available for the game tomorrow. It is a separate issue (from previous injury).”