Overview
- Enzo Maresca confirmed Delap’s hamstring layoff at roughly 10–12 weeks after the striker limped off against Fulham on August 30, with no surgery required and a possible return in late November or December.
- Chelsea recalled 18-year-old Marc Guiu from his loan at Sunderland to bolster depth, with Joao Pedro the preferred centre-forward option and Tyrique George also considered cover.
- Cole Palmer returned to the matchday squad and was named on the bench at Brentford after taking part in part of training late this week.
- Team news for Brentford included Moises Caicedo starting after a late return from international duty, Reece James listed among the substitutes, and Estevao Willian not involved.
- The club’s selection challenges continue against the backdrop of FA charges for 74 alleged agent-payment breaches, plus injuries to Dario Essugo (thigh surgery) and long-term absentee Levi Colwill (ACL).