Chelsea and Hull City Injury Updates Ahead of FA Cup Clash
Chelsea are set to face Hull City in the FA Cup on Friday night, with both teams grappling with substantial injury issues. The Blues, coming off a frustrating draw with Leeds United, view this match as an opportunity to revive their winning momentum and keep their domestic trophy hopes alive. Meanwhile, Hull City, currently fourth in the Championship and enjoying their best season in years, have their own motivations, including manager Liam Rosenior's personal agenda after his past dismissal by the club.
Hull City Injury Concerns
Hull City are dealing with multiple absences that could affect their lineup for the crucial FA Cup encounter. Key players ruled out include:
- Semi Ajayi: Suffering from a hamstring injury, he is expected to be sidelined until March.
- Cody Drameh: A hip issue will keep him out of action until March as well.
- Mohamed Belloumi: Out for much of the season, with hopes of a return before it concludes.
- Darko Gyabi: A groin injury sustained last month likely rules him out until April.
- Eliot Matazo: Recovering from a ruptured ACL, he is back training but not yet match-ready.
- Matt Crooks: A hamstring problem will sideline him until at least next month.
- Jamie Bynoe-Gittens: Confirmed by Rosenior to have a hamstring tear, making his return uncertain and long-term.
Additionally, Nathan Tinsdale is listed as a doubt due to a knee injury, with his return expected in the next week or two, potentially too soon for this match.
Chelsea Injury and Suspension Issues
Chelsea also face challenges with player availability, impacting their squad depth for the FA Cup tie. Key updates include:
- Reece James: Listed as a doubt after missing the Leeds game due to feeling unwell, though he is expected to be available for this match.
- Filip Jorgensen: Considered close to fitness and likely to be available, as indicated by Rosenior ahead of the Arsenal game.
- Tosin Adarabioyo: A doubt but has returned to training and is in contention for selection.
- Romeo Lavia: Ruled out as he continues his recovery, with Rosenior emphasizing a cautious approach to ensure a lasting return.
- Dario Essugo: Not expected back until early March, adding to the absentee list.
- Levi Colwill: Out with a potential return before the season ends, but his recovery is being managed step by step to avoid setbacks.
- Mykhailo Mudryk: Suspended due to Anti-Doping Rule Violations, as confirmed by a club statement, and not included in the injury count due to the nature of his absence.
These injury and suspension issues highlight the tactical adjustments both teams must make ahead of the FA Cup clash, with Chelsea aiming to overcome recent frustrations and Hull City seeking to capitalize on their strong Championship form.
