Chelsea host Crystal Palace on Wednesday and Mauricio Pochettino says Enzo Fernandez will miss the Premier League clash.
The 22-year-old was left out of Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers and hasn’t recovered in time to face Palace.
When asked about Fernandez’s availability, Pochettino said via Chelsea’s official website: “Enzo no.”
Who did Fernandez do?
Fernandez’s last outing for Chelsea came in their EFL Cup win over Newcastle United on December 19. The Argentine international was substituted after 31 minutes and headed down the tunnel with a member of the medical staff.
Pochettino said Fernandez was initially sick, but he was visibly in tears after the game. The Chelsea manager confirmed on the Blues’ official website that Fernandez had a hernia causing him discomfort. He didn’t feel well and went on to have treatment with a doctor, but Chelsea must be ruing their luck.
Fernandez has made 20 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring three goals with one assist. The Argentine hasn’t been at his best for Chelsea, however, resulting in criticism from Pochettino for his inconsistency.
Per WhoScored, Fernandez is 8th in Chelsea’s squad for tackles (1.6 per game) and 9th for interceptions (0.6 per game). He’s not having the desired impact in midfield but will be missed as the Blues don’t have a better option.
Midfield down to bare bones
Moises Caicedo is doubtful while Lesley Ugochukwu will miss the Palace meeting, so Pochettino may be short of central midfielders. Connor Gallagher is available, but it remains to be seen who will partner him. Romeo Lavia was an unused substitute in Chelsea’s defeat to Wolves, so he’s an option. The 19-year-old hasn’t played a game all season, however, so he’ll be short of match fitness.
Chelsea will be desperate to get back on track against Palace after their form collapsed in recent weeks. Pochettino won’t have a full-strength team to put out, but his men have fared better at home. Palace are in woeful shape lately and can’t buy a win in the Premier League, so that might bode well for the hosts.
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