Reece James, Enzo Fernandez, Romeo Lavia - Chelsea injury news and return dates vs West Ham

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca will hope that a week’s rest will allow enough time for some of his players to return from absences ahead of West Ham on Saturday.

Five senior players are doubts for the clash as things stand, although a handful are anticipated to return in time for the weekend. After losing the opening match to Manchester City, Chelsea have built a three-game unbeaten run in the Premier League.

The Blues thrashed Wolves and only drew with Crystal Palace thanks to a sumptuous strike from Eberechi Eze. Last Saturday’s 1-0 win over Bournemouth saw the most yellow cards (14) ever handed out in a Premier League game, but the three points is all that will matter to Chelsea.

West Ham have only won one of their four matches although nevertheless remain a stern test at the London Stadium. Maresca may boast a bloated squad but he will still be eager to get his best players out on the pitch. However, one player’s recovery has apparently taken a backwards step.

Reece James

Injury: Hamstring.

What we know: Having played just 11 games last season due to setbacks, James has yet to get onto the pitch this campaign. And now, according to The Sun, the right-back’s hamstring is not healing as expected so his return is delayed. As a result, it is unclear when he is due back.

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What Enzo Maresca has said: "Unfortunately, Reece needs more time."

Possible return date: Unknown.

Enzo Fernandez

Injury: Illness.

What we know: Enzo Fernandez missed the win over Bournemouth due to being unwell. An update on the midfielder is yet to be given but he might have recovered by the time Saturday comes around.

Possible return date: West Ham (September 21).

Romeo Lavia

Injury: Hamstring.

What we know: Lavia has not played since August’s home leg win over Servette in the Conference League play-offs. The 20-year-old only played 32 minutes last season due to injury and has already more than doubled his number of minutes in his two games this term.

What Enzo Maresca has said: "Romeo Lavia is very close, hopefully he is back for the next game."

Possible return date: West Ham (September 21).

Malo Gusto

Injury: Thigh.

What we know: Gusto is thought to be nursing a muscle problem that saw him miss the 1-0 win over Bournemouth. He is not expected back any time imminently.

What Enzo Maresca has said: "Malo is still out."

Possible return date: Unknown.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall

Injury: Illness.

What we know: The 26-year-old also sat out the Bournemouth match with illness but could return for the trip to London. He has failed to start a Premier League game so far having been benched against Palace and used as a substitute in the opening two matches.

Possible return date: West Ham (September 21).