Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez is a doubt for Saturday’s game against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
The Blues won 3-1 in their last game against Wolves, in which, goals came from Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Cucurella and Noni Madueke.
It left Enzo Maresca‘s side fourth in the Premier League table, 10 points away from league leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand.
However, the Chelsea boss could be without key midfielder Fernandez this weekend, as he is dealing with a muscle problem that he picked up ahead of Monday’s game against Wolves.
It is more likely than not that Fernandez will return for the big game against City, who are just two points and one place behind the Blues in the league table.
Fernandez has made 20 appearances this season, scoring three goals and contributing four assists. He made it into our predicted XI for Saturday’s game at the Etihad.
Expected return date – Saturday 25 January vs Manchester City (A)
Romeo Lavia
Midfielder Lavia suffered a very similar muscle issue to what Fernandez is recovering from. He is also a doubt for the City game, it could be a big blow for Maresca if he loses both.
The Chelsea boss spoke on both midfielders earlier this week, he said: “We don’t know yet how long they are going to be out. Hopefully, not too long. Muscle fatigue or muscle problem. We need to wait a little bit.”
As there is still uncertainty over whether they will be fit, it could provide Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall with another chance to start, like he did against Wolves on Monday night.
Expected return date – Saturday 25 January vs Manchester City (A)