Jamie Gittens out ‘long-term’ with hamstring tear as Chelsea injury list grows

Chelsea have been dealt a fresh injury blow after head coach Liam Rosenior confirmed Jamie Gittens has suffered a hamstring tear.

The winger is now expected to miss an extended period of action and has been described as a “more long-term” absentee.

Gittens was forced off in the 26th minute of Saturday’s 3-2 comeback win over West Ham United.

He was subsequently omitted from the squad for Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup semi-final defeat away to Arsenal.

Speaking after the match, Rosenior confirmed scans had revealed a tear in the player’s hamstring.

The Chelsea head coach admitted it was a significant setback for both the player and the squad.

“Jamie is looking a little bit more long-term,” Rosenior said.

“He’s got a tear in his hamstring, which is a real shame for him.”

Rosenior also acknowledged the impact the injury will have on his options in wide areas.

Despite only working with Gittens for a short period, he highlighted the winger’s quality and reputation.

“I know about his career and what an outstanding player he is,” he added.

“That’s going to be a big miss for us.”

No clear timeframe has been placed on Gittens’ return, with Rosenior stressing it is too early to make predictions.

The 20-year-old has featured regularly since arriving from Borussia Dortmund last summer.

He has made 27 appearances in all competitions for Chelsea this season.

Gittens has contributed one goal and five assists during his first campaign at Stamford Bridge.

His absence further thins Chelsea’s attacking options following a quiet January transfer window.

Alejandro Garnacho, Pedro Neto and Estevao are now the club’s only remaining natural senior wingers.

That situation was compounded by Tyrique George’s deadline-day departure to Everton.

Chelsea are also monitoring the fitness of Neto and captain Reece James.

Both players missed the Arsenal defeat and remain doubts for Saturday’s Premier League trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Rosenior said it was too early to confirm whether either would be available.

There was more positive news regarding Cole Palmer and Estevao.

Both are considered fit enough to play a full 90 minutes against Wolves.

Palmer’s workload continues to be carefully managed after an injury-disrupted season.

Rosenior stressed there is no fixed timeline for the midfielder to return to playing consecutive full matches.

“It’s just game to game,” he explained.

The Chelsea coach emphasised the importance of player welfare amid a demanding schedule.

He pointed to the congested calendar, including the Club World Cup, international football and limited recovery time.

Rosenior said protecting players’ long-term careers remains a priority.

For now, Chelsea must adapt without Gittens as they navigate a crucial stretch of the season.