CHELSEA’S injury situation has deteriorated during the international break, as Enzo Fernandez has been compelled to withdraw from the Argentina squad.
The Argentine midfielder has exited the national team camp and is on his way back to London due to swelling in his right knee.
Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez was forced to withdraw from the Argentina squad
Fernandez’s injury has compounded Chelsea’s injury woes
Fernandez has been crucial for Chelsea's attacking play this season, with his three goals being the joint highest on the team, alongside a teammate who was also nursing an injury but was not playing for Ecuador, allowing him some much-needed rest.
The plan was for him to be rested in Argentina’s next match on Wednesday—a friendly against Puerto Rico—but he will be hoping to recover in time to play against Nottingham Forest next Saturday.
A two-week break for Joao Pedro, Reece James, and Caicedo will be a relief for manager Enzo Maresca, while Josh Acheampong returned during the break for England’s Under-21s after sustaining an injury against Liverpool.
Injury-prone Romeo Lavia and Wesley Fofana will both be available for the Blues’ upcoming trip as well.
After being spotted in training this week, Lavia is being managed similarly to James regarding his playing time.
If Fernandez is unable to participate in the match against Forest, the most suitable replacement for him would be fellow Argentine Facundo Buonanotte.
Caicedo will likely be joined in midfield by either Lavia or James.
Trevoh Chalobah will return from suspension, and Tosin Adarabioyo, Andrey Santos, and possibly Palmer are also expected to make a comeback this month.
The Blues will also be without their manager for the match against Forest after the break.
Maresca was shown a second yellow card against Liverpool for running down the touchline and celebrating.
