Chelsea injury update: Reece James, Andrey Santos and Tosin Adarabioyo latest

Chelsea are hoping for a timely fitness boost ahead of Tuesday’s Premier League meeting with Leeds, with Liam Rosenior increasingly optimistic that key squad members could return as the Blues build momentum.

Saturday’s 3–1 win over Wolves marked a positive step, both in results and availability. Cole Palmer returned to the starting XI with a statement hat-trick, while Pedro Neto shook off a knock to feature again. However, Rosenior was still forced to manage absences elsewhere and is monitoring several players closely.

Here is the latest Chelsea injury update, including news on Reece James, Andrey Santos and Tosin Adarabioyo.

Reece James missed his second straight match due to what Rosenior described as a “small knock”, raising inevitable concerns given his injury history.

The Chelsea captain has, however, been progressing steadily. He completed modified training last week and was back running on Friday, but was not risked for the trip to Molineux.

Rosenior sounded encouraged after the Wolves win.

“Reece, he’s so close and he should be fit for Tuesday,” the Chelsea head coach said.

“There’s not a major problem at all. It’s a pain-management issue and he’s really, really close.”

James is now expected to be available for Leeds, barring any late setbacks.

Potential return date: 10 February vs Leeds (H)

Andrey Santos has continued to flourish under Rosenior, anchoring midfield alongside Moisés Caicedo against Wolves.

The Brazilian enjoyed a relatively quiet afternoon but appeared to take a knock late on. He initially tried to continue before signalling to the bench and being replaced by Jorrel Hato in the 84th minute.

Rosenior did not mention Santos in his post-match injury update, suggesting no immediate concern, though the midfielder will likely be assessed before Tuesday.

Potential return date: Unknown

Jamie Gittens has been ruled out for an extended period after suffering a hamstring tear during Chelsea’s comeback win over West Ham.

He has since missed matches against Arsenal and Wolves, with Rosenior confirming the severity of the issue.

“Jamie is looking a little bit more long-term,” Rosenior explained. “That’s a big miss for us.”

Potential return date: Unknown

Filip Jorgensen made a quicker-than-expected recovery after being substituted at half-time against Pafos in the Champions League, but has since missed several matchday squads.

Rosenior said last week the goalkeeper was “close to being fit”, and with no indication of a setback, a return to the bench against Leeds appears possible.

Potential return date: 10 February vs Leeds (H)

Tosin Adarabioyo has been back at Cobham completing light ball work and running after suffering a hamstring injury against Brentford in mid-January.

Despite that progress, he was not included for the Wolves fixture. With cover available in defence, Chelsea may opt to delay his return slightly rather than rush him back.

A comeback in the FA Cup against Hull City looks more realistic.

Potential return date: 13 February vs Hull City (A)

Romeo Lavia remains in the latter stages of recovery from a thigh injury suffered in November. He has returned to training, with Rosenior stressing the importance of a strong final rehab phase.

Dario Essugo is expected to be sidelined until at least March after a training-ground injury, while Levi Colwillcontinues his careful recovery from a serious pre-season knee injury, with a return before the end of the campaign still possible.

Chelsea host Leeds on Tuesday before turning their attention to the FA Cup trip to Hull City. Rosenior will hope to reintegrate key players carefully as fixtures continue to pile up across competitions.

Is Reece James’ return the missing piece Chelsea need to build consistency under Liam Rosenior?