Liam Rosenior provides an injury update on Reece James, Filip Jorgensen and Cole Palmer after Chelsea’s win over Pafos

Chelsea’s boss, Liam Rosenior, has given injury updates on captain Reece James, Filip Jorgensen and Cole Palmer, who was not in the matchday squad after the Blues’ 1-0 UEFA Champions League victory over Pafos FC on Wednesday night.

Jorgensen and James were replaced at half-time by Robert Sanchez and Estevao Willian, respectively. The goalkeeper was forced off injured, and though Rosenior couldn’t say what the problem was or the extent of it, he was disappointed for the keeper.

“Unfortunately Filip picked something up,” he said.

“I’m devastated for him because he’s really impressed me, not just with the game at Charlton but also with how he’s trained. Hopefully Filip can get better really quickly.”

On the skipper, meanwhile, Rosenior explained he was managing his minutes by taking him off at the break.

“We are playing Wednesday, Saturday, Wednesday, and Saturday, so we want to make sure Reece is available as much as possible because he’s an outstanding player and a leader in our group.”

Before kick-off in the Pafos game, Rosenior confirmed Palmer missed out with a “little bit of tightness in his thigh”. The head coach provided some additional detail on the Englishman’s issue.

“It was precautionary,” said Rosenior. “He felt something really minor in the game against Brentford. It was quite early on, so credit to him for playing through it. I don’t want to risk any players at this stage, especially players of his quality.

“He’s got a really good chance to be involved and start the game on Sunday, and we will keep preparing him for that.”

Chelsea make a short trip across the capital to face London rivals Crystal Palace in the Premier League at Selhurst Park on Sunday, as the Blues hope to push for a Champions League spot.