Chelsea interim head coach Calum MacFarlane revealed that Estevao Willian’s season is over after suffering a hamstring injury.
The Blues head to Wembley on Sunday to face Leeds United in the FA Cup semi-finals, with kickoff scheduled for 3pm BST.
They will have to do so without Estevao after the Brazilian winger was forced off against Manchester United last week. It is hoped, however, that Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro will return to the fold this weekend. Palmer missed the Brighton game because of a minor injury, while Pedro was absent for the defeats against the Red Devils and the Seagulls.
Chelsea starlet’s season over but injured duo could return
“Estevao unfortunately won’t play for us this season. He is going to be out for a little bit of time,” MacFarlane said in his pre-match press conference.
“We’re not sure how long he will be out for but he certainly won’t play for us again this season, unfortunately.
“That’s really unfortunate for him, especially for someone so young and talented as he is but we are here to support him and be around him.
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“With Joao and Cole, they both trained today and are in a good place. We don’t know yet [whether they can feature on Sunday], but we have another day tomorrow to have a look at them and then make a call on them.
“We hope so, but it’s important we give them time. We are going to train tomorrow, they will both be involved and we will make a call on them after that session.
When asked if Estevao will be fit for the World Cup, MacFarlane responded: “I’m not sure on that if I’m honest. He won’t be available for us. I’m sure he’s very hopeful he can make the World Cup but I don’t know on that.”
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