Chelsea trio join Hazard in missing PAOK clash
David Luiz, Mateo Kovacic and Emerson have joined Eden Hazard in missing Thursday night’s clash against PAOK.
Chelsea have confirmed the four players did not travel with the first-team squad for the Europa League opener.
It had already been widely reported that Hazard would be missing the game, with many expecting the Belgian to be rested.
Kovacic has been struggling with an injury after being forced off early in the second half against Cardiff on Saturday.
It is yet to be confirmed as to why both Luiz and Emerson have missed out, with the latter originally expected to replace Marcos Alonso at left-back and allow the Spaniard a well-earned rest against the Greek side.
The news provides opportunities for the likes of Andreas Christensen, Ethan Ampadu and Ross Barkley, who could now all come into the team and make an impact against PAOK.
Chelsea are due to train this evening ahead of the game on Thursday night.