Liam Rosenior has confirmed that Jamie Gittens is back fit for Chelsea’s Saturday evening clash against Newcastle United, providing a much needed boost after the Blues’ late collapse at PSG on Wednesday.
However, the news is less encouraging for Brazilian sensation Estevao Willian, who is being held back as he recovers from a hamstring injury.
Rosenior explained that the club is being “extremely careful” to avoid a recurrence, with a view to having the teenager ready for the Champions League second leg against the French champions next Tuesday.
The Chelsea boss is also facing a significant dilemma in goal following Filip Jorgensen’s unconvincing display in the 5-2 defeat at the Parc des Princes.
Reports suggest Robert Sanchez could be recalled to the starting XI to provide more stability against an in-form Newcastle attack led by Anthony Gordon.
Despite the distractions of European football and a looming FA Cup quarter-final, Rosenior insisted today that his focus has not even “entered his head” regarding future fixtures, stating that every game is now essentially a final as they chase a top-four finish in an incredibly congested table.