Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior confirms injury setbacks for two wingers, a goalkeeper and clarifies the absence of his young defender ahead of PSG clash.
Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has revealed fresh injury concerns ahead of the club’s crucial Champions League round of 16 second leg against Paris Saint-Germain.
The Blues face the reigning European champions at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday needing a remarkable comeback after suffering a 5-2 defeat in the first leg at the Parc des Princes last week. Their preparations were further complicated on Sunday as they slipped to a 1-0 home loss against Newcastle in the Premier League.
Speaking after that defeat, Rosenior confirmed that Chelsea’s attacking options have been reduced following setbacks to two of their wingers.
Brazilian youngster Estevao Willian remains unavailable, while Jamie Gittens suffered a late problem just as he was expected to return to the squad.
“It’s difficult with the injuries in the attacking areas. Jamie was due back on the bench but he felt his hamstring late after training yesterday. Estevao is out,” Rosenior explained.
The news leaves Chelsea short of wide attacking depth as they attempt to overturn their three-goal deficit against Paris Saint-Germain.
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Goalkeeper situation adds further concern
Chelsea may also face uncertainty in the goalkeeping department after Rosenior revealed that Filip Jorgensen missed the Newcastle match due to a groin issue.
Jorgensen started the first leg in Paris but endured a difficult evening, with a couple of errors contributing directly to PSG goals. However, Rosenior insisted his absence at the weekend was purely down to fitness.
“Filip felt his groin in training yesterday but hopefully he’s back soon.”
With Jorgensen sidelined, Robert Sánchez returned to the starting lineup against Newcastle and is now expected to retain his place for Wednesday’s decisive Champions League encounter.
Rosenior also addressed the absence of defender Josh Acheampong, confirming it was simply a tactical decision rather than an injury concern.
“Josh Acheampong, it’s just a decision I made today. He’s not out of my plans at all.”
With injuries mounting and a major deficit to overturn, Chelsea face a difficult task against the current European champions as they attempt to keep their Champions League campaign alive.