Chelsea's objectives for the rest of the season are clear; win the FA Cup when they meet Liverpool in the final on May 14. And finish third in the Premier League, a goal they can take a huge step towards when they host London rivals Arsenal on Wednesday evening.
However, ahead of the game there are some injury concerns for Blues boss Thomas Tuchel following Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final against Crystal Palace. Mateo Kovacic was substituted in the first half at Wembley and could potentially be out of action for some time.
With that being said, here is all of the latest injury updates ahead of the mid-week clash with the Gunners.
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Mateo Kovacic
The Croatian midfielder started against Palace but was withdrawn less than 30 minutes into the contest after picking up an ankle problem. He was replaced by Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Tuchel is less than optimistic that he’ll be available to face Mikel Arteta’s side.
What Tuchel has said: "When Kova comes off, you know that he is in pain. The ankle is swollen, it’s a huge ankle right now. So let’s hope. It doesn’t look so good but we will wait for the examination and we can tell you more."
Expected return: Unknown
Ross Barkley
Barkley was expected to return from illness and be available for selection against Palace, but the 28-year-old wasn’t named in the matchday squad. And it remains unclear whether the issue that ruled him out for Sunday’s trip to Wembley will keep him out of the midweek clash against Arsenal.
What Tuchel has said: "Ross Barkley is sick, he will not travel."
Expected return: Unknown
Callum Hudson-Odoi
Hudson-Odoi has struggled with a troublesome Achilles issue restricting the 21-year-old’s involvement of late. No risks have been taken with the academy graduate who remains out and his return date is still unknown.
What Tuchel has said: "Except for Ben Chilwell and Callum Hudson-Odoi. Everyone seems to be okay."
Expected return: N/A
Ben Chilwell
Chilwell suffered a cruciate ligament injury in November that is set to keep him out for the rest of the season. The 25-year-old performed well in the early stages of the campaign but won't make a return until the summer.
Expected return: Summer 2022
