Gianfranco Zola has confirmed that Eden Hazard is unlikely to feature against Derby in the Carabao Cup clash on Wednesday night.
Speaking at the club’s pre-match press conference, Maurizio Sarri’s right-hand man confirmed that the Belgian could be involved this weekend.
The Chelsea winger has been struggling with a back injury since the 2-2 draw with Manchester United and missed the win over Burnley at the weekend, while he also sat out of the previous Europa League clash.
Hazard was seen in some discomfort during the warm-up against Jose Mourinho’s men.
Chelsea will be keen to manage the player carefully over the coming weeks, with the Belgian enjoying a fine start to the season under Sarri.
The Blues welcome Crystal Palace to Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon and Sarri will be hoping that he will be able to call upon his talisman when the club return to Premier League action.
