James, Cucurella, Gittens, Estevao: Latest Chelsea fitness news & potential injury return dates ahead of Arsenal
In this story:
The Chelsea team news has been confirmed ahead of their Premier League clash against Arsenal on Sunday afternoon.
Liam Rosenior's side have had another full week to prepare for the trip to the Emirates following their 1-1 draw against Burnley, who inflicted frustration on the Blues at Stamford Bridge last weekend to ensure Chelsea drew back-to-back league games.
Chelsea will be desperate to get back to winning ways to get their Champions League qualification bid back on course, whilst also damaging Arsenal's title hopes should they take at least a point from north London.
But Rosenior is dealing with several fitness issues as he deliberates over his selection to face Mikel Arteta's Gunners.
Chelsea continue to be without Levi Colwill, Marc Cucurella, Dario Essugo, Jamie Gittens and Estevao.
In positive news, club captain Reece James is set to be available after his precautionary withdrawal against Burnley. Romeo Lavia is continuing to step up his return after his inclusion on the bench last weekend.
"Reece is absolutely fine," confirmed Rosenior.
"Romeo Lavia is getting stronger and stronger. We have a mini-practice match in a week where he looked really good, which is great for him.
"Unfortunately, Estevao will be out for a little bit longer. And Jamie is progressing really, really well in terms of his rehab.
"Cucu is progressing really, really well. He is not available for Sunday, but hopefully we get him back in as quickly as possible.
"Levi is doing really, really well with his long-term rehab.
"At the moment, Dario is back on the training pitch as well which is good. Hopefully, we can get all of these players back in fit for the run-in of the season."
In terms of Arsenal team news, Arteta confirmed late decisions will be made on Ben White and Kai Havertz.
Matt Debono leads the editorial team which covers Chelsea On SI. He has witnessed Chelsea win it all, whilst also featuring on ITV News, SPORTbible and various other publications.