Frank Lampard has a plethora of injury problems ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League encounter against Manchester United on Thursday.
Up to eight players are expected to miss out on the Blues’ second game in Manchester in just five days. Chelsea were beaten at the Etihad on Sunday and will hope for a different outcome at Old Trafford in midweek.
Of the eight players missing, Lampard was asked about Benoit Badiashile, after it was revealed this week that the defender has suffered a long-term hamstring injury. “It’s a big blow for him and I am disappointed for him,” said the interim Chelsea boss.
“He has come here and impressed and the games just before he got injured I was very happy with him. He is going to be a good player for this club.
“It is an unfortunate, complicated injury. It is months rather than weeks,” he continued. “I hope for him that the timing of it over the summer means that he won’t miss games and he will come back stronger.”
Lampard also confirmed Joao Felix should be back after he missed the weekend defeat to City, while Kalidou Koulibaly also returned in the 1-0 loss to Pep Guardiola’s men.
As for United, Erik ten Hag said he’s hopeful that Marcus Rashford will be fit after missing the last two matches. The United boss is also without three players for Thursday’s game, all of whom have been ruled out until the 2023/24 campaign.
Ahead of the match at Old Trafford, here’s the full injury list from both clubs…
Of the eight players missing, Lampard was asked about Benoit Badiashile, after it was revealed this week that the defender has suffered a long-term hamstring injury. “It’s a big blow for him and I am disappointed for him,” said the interim Chelsea boss.
5. Benoit Badiashile- Out
Lampard confirmed he’ll be out for a number of months with a hamstring injury.
6. Marc Cucurella- Out
Lampard confirmed those who missed the City match won’t be back for Thursday’s game.
7. Reece James- Out
Is back in training but not fit enough yet for the Old Trafford encounter.
8. Ben Chilwell- Out
Named in Wednesday’s England squad but won’t play against United.