On paper, Chelsea’s London derby against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup this Wednesday should be an exciting match.
It is a semi-final featuring two of the best teams in the world, even if Chelsea have not looked like one of late.
In their last nine Premier League games, the Blues have won just once. New manager Liam Rosenior was not in charge for any of those matches, though.
SCENARIO: Reece James and Cole Palmer are both unavailable for the Arsenal game. What does your midfield look like? Who are you playing in the No.10 position?
Facundo Buonanotte the wildcard?
Ahead of the tie, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been speaking about injuries, which could easily spoil the occasion.
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Mikel Arteta now fears two crucial Arsenal players are going to miss Chelsea game
Piero Hincapie and Riccardo Calafiori will miss Arsenal’s trip to Stamford Bridge, and Arteta has now revealed that he is concerned about William Saliba and Leandro Trossard’s chances of making the London derby.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, which has been shared by football.london, Arteta said: “Hincapie and Calafiori not available yet. The other worries are Saliba and Trossard.”
Saliba has been one of the most consistent centre-backs in the Premier League over the last few seasons, while Trossard makes an impact whenever he plays.
In 17 top-flight appearances this term, the winger has registered nine goal contributions. Not having them available would be a huge blow for Arteta.
Chelsea were excellent in their win against Charlton last weekend and Rosenior will want to build on that, but he also has his own injury problems.
Reece James and Cole Palmer doubts for Chelsea
Chelsea could be without arguably their two best players for Wednesday night’s London derby.
In his pre-match press conference, Rosenior gave an update on Reece James and Cole Palmer, who both missed Chelsea’s recent victory at The Valley.
Finish our XI to face Arsenal!
Cole Palmer is struggling with a minor injury, but would you still risk him?
The 41-year-old said that he would make checks on the two England internationals on Tuesday or Wednesday morning.
Honestly, without those two, it is hard to imagine Chelsea getting a draw let alone a win. Hopefully, then, they are both available and can help Rosenior to claim a massive victory early in his career at Stamford Bridge.
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