The Chelsea team has been ravaged by injury problems so far this season, with star players Reece James, Christopher Nkunku, Wesley Fofana and Armando Broja among notable absentees.

Summer signing Romeo Lavia is yet to kick a ball this season, as he suffered an ankle injury during the international break, which will see the midfielder wait at least another six weeks before making his debut for the club.

Moises Caicedo got a slight knock on his knee while on international duty.

The likes of Marcus Bettinelli, Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah and Carney Chukwuemeka are also out injured.

Mauricio Pochettino bemoaned his side’s situation before the game against Bournemouth.

“With the circumstances, of course, I think it’s better for us because we have 11 or 12 players injured,” said Pochettino.

“And I think it shows with the squad at the moment. I think we only have 14 or 15 players. I think it’s important that we can recover the players and be competitive.”