As Chelsea gear up for a pivotal Premier League clash against Liverpool this Saturday, injury concerns are casting a shadow over their preparations. According to Calum McFarlane, three key players—Alejandro Garnacho, Pedro Neto, and Robert Sanchez—are all doubtful for the high-stakes encounter at Anfield.
The injury woes began on Bank Holiday Monday, when goalkeeper Robert Sanchez suffered a head injury during Chelsea’s disappointing 3-1 loss to Nottingham Forest. Meanwhile, Pedro Neto missed that match after picking up a knock in the FA Cup semi-final against Leeds, and Alejandro Garnacho has also been sidelined with a similar issue. "Neto and Garnacho are carrying knocks, so it is looking unlikely that they will be available. Rob is also not going to be available after the injury he sustained in the Nottingham Forest game," McFarlane confirmed.
Adding to the team's challenges, promising youngster Jesse Derry has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after sustaining a head injury in the same Forest match. McFarlane shared an optimistic update on his recovery, stating, "I spoke to Jesse's dad the night it happened... the early signs are really positive. It is disappointing, but as long as he is healthy, that's all that really matters. He showed in that first half his quality and what he can bring to this team."
On a brighter note, Chelsea fans can take heart from the potential return of defensive duo Levi Colwill and Reece James. Colwill, who made his comeback against Forest after recovering from an ACL injury sustained in August 2025, has been training fully alongside James, who has been absent for the last five matches with a hamstring issue. "We've got a few lads returning. Levi and Reece have trained a full week. It's looking promising," McFarlane added, offering a glimmer of hope ahead of the Liverpool showdown.
With the Blues aiming to bounce back from recent setbacks, these fitness updates will be crucial as they prepare to face a Liverpool side in formidable form. Stay tuned for the latest team news as kickoff approaches!