Chelsea are navigating through another frustrating injury spell, with several key players currently sidelined or facing fitness concerns after the international break. For manager Enzo Maresca, the challenge is further complicated as he prepares to tackle Bournemouth this weekend, with defensive options stretched thin and injury clouds hovering over a few summer signings.

Palmer's Fitness Concerns After England Duty Cole Palmer's withdrawal from England duty raised eyebrows, but it was described as a precaution due to "ongoing issues" rather than a significant injury. Reports suggest Palmer has been dealing with muscle fatigue, and Chelsea have opted to manage his workload carefully by leaving him out of the Europa Conference League squad. His absence from that competition has fans hoping that Palmer will be fit and ready to return soon.

Photo: IMAGO Despite these concerns, the latest updates indicate that the 22-year-old attacking midfielder is not expected to spend any significant time on the sidelines. He is likely to be available for selection as early as this weekend's fixture against Bournemouth, providing he gets sufficient rest during the international break.

Potential return date: 14 September, vs Bournemouth

Reece James' Lingering Hamstring Issues Reece James' ongoing struggle with injuries continues to plague Chelsea's backline. A recurring hamstring problem has kept the right-back out of action since the start of the season, and while Maresca has not provided an update, it is widely believed that James is still weeks away from returning to training. His suspension following a red card against Brighton in May adds to the frustration for both player and fans.

Photo: IMAGO While a return in late September has been tentatively suggested, Chelsea's captain remains a significant loss to their defensive structure, especially as his leadership and experience are sorely missed.

Potential return date: Late September 2024

Gusto Adds to Right-Back Woes With Reece James out, Chelsea were relying on Malo Gusto to step into the void at right-back. However, Gusto's recent thigh injury, picked up in the match against Crystal Palace, forced him off the pitch before the international break. The injury also led to his withdrawal from France U21 duty, leaving his availability for the Bournemouth clash in serious doubt.

Picture:IMAGO Enzo Maresca commented after the Palace game, saying, "We will see what happens. It looks like a muscle problem and we are going to see." This uncertainty leaves Chelsea thin at right-back, as Gusto's potential absence could force tactical reshuffles in defence.

Potential return date: 21 September, vs West Ham

Jorgensen Faces Uncertain Timeline After Denmark U21 Injury Goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen, one of Chelsea's summer signings, also joined the injury list after picking up a knock while playing for Denmark's Under-21s. The severity of the injury remains unclear, but Denmark's U21 coach, Steffen Hojer, expressed concern following the game against the Czech Republic. "I don't really know. He's being checked. I don't know how bad it went, but it was certainly [bad] enough for him to go off," Hojer said.

Photo: IMAGO While fans await more concrete updates on Jorgensen's condition, his availability for Chelsea's upcoming fixtures remains a major question mark.

Potential return date: Unknown

Lavia's Minor Hamstring Setback Romeo Lavia, who made his Chelsea debut against Manchester City, has been sidelined with a hamstring injury, missing the last two Premier League matches. Fortunately, the injury is not considered severe, and Lavia is expected to be available for Chelsea's clash against Bournemouth. Maresca's comments on the situation were reassuring, describing the injury as "not a huge concern."

With Lavia's return on the horizon, Chelsea will hope to stabilise their midfield, which has seen significant upheaval in recent weeks.

Potential return date: 14 September, vs Bournemouth