Tammy Abraham is still struggling with a hip injury but could return to action in Chelsea’s game against Aston Villa.
The England striker, who spent last season at Villa on loan, was taken off during Chelsea’s Champions League game against Valencia last week and missed Saturday’s home defeat against West Ham.
Blues boss Frank Lampard revealed on Tuesday afternoon that Abraham is still feeling some pain but “has a chance” of being fit for Villa’s visit to Stamford Bridge.
Abraham will face a late fitness test before a decision is taken on whether he can play.
“We’re giving him every possible chance to be fit,” Lampard explained.
“He’s still got some pain in the area of the injury, so we’ll make a judgement call tomorrow.
“It’s painful for him, so it’s about pain thresholds. Does it affect his movements etc?
“He was in good form and, with every player who’s important, you try to give them as much time (as possible).
“You need them to be keen and he’s always keen, so he’s trying his best and we’re trying our best to give him time.”
Lampard also said Antonio Rudiger is “close” to a return and that Chelsea hope the defender will be available in seven to 10 days.
But Ross Barkley has been ill and will not be considered for the Villa game, Lampard added.
This post was last modified on 03/12/2019