Fernandez doubtful; Estevao, Gusto back for Chelsea against Pafos

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez may miss Wednesday’s Champions League match at Stamford Bridge against Cyprus’ Pafos due to illness, but Malo Gusto and Estavao are back in the coach's lineup, Liam Rosenior said on Tuesday.

Estevao and Gusto were absent from Chelsea’s 2-0 Premier League win over Brentford at home after falling ill. Winger Jamie Gittens, who sat out for the last two matches for the same reason, is now available after recovering.

"Fernandez was ill yesterday and missed training," Rosenior told reporters.

"Estevao has been back in. Gittens is back in. Gusto is back involved - another outstanding player.

"There are a few coughs around and we're working very hard to make sure the players are right for the game."

Rosenior also provided an update on centre back Tosin Adarabioyo, who is sidelined after being forced off against Brentford.

"Unfortunately for Tosin, there's something in his hamstring that is going to rule him out for the next few weeks," Rosenior added.

Rosenior, 41, was named Chelsea coach on January 6 on a contract running until 2032, and their five-game winless run ended with a 5-1 FA Cup victory at Charlton.

Chelsea then lost to Arsenal 3-2 in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg, and defeated Brentford 2-0 in the Premier League last time out.

He is Chelsea's fourth full-time head coach appointed since American Todd Boehly took over the club in 2022 and will manage his first Champions League match for the West London side on Wednesday.

Asked about stepping in mid-season and the possibility of challenging for the Champions League with the two-time winners, Rosenior said: "It would be great. Hopefully third time lucky, but you're not lucky to win a Champions League.

"I never limit the ambitions of my players. We have to focus on this game."