Enzo Maresca already knew he was going to be without some of his key players for Chelsea’s return to the Premier League against Burnley.
Maresca admitted Cole Palmer had suffered a setback before the game, while it was always unlikely that Moises Caicedo would make the starting XI after his travels during the international break.
There were questions over who the manager would select at the heart of defence, and whether Josh Acheampong would make the starting side after impressing whenever given the chance.
The youngster was named on the bench for the game, however fellow centre-back Wesley Fofana was nowhere to be seen in the matchday squad.
Chelsea v Wolverhampton Wanderers - Premier League
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Enzo Maresca confirms Wesley Fofana absence for Chelsea vs Burnley
The Frenchman was not carrying any recognised injury issues before the game, and he’d started consecutive Premier League games before this.
Maresca was asked why Fofana was not in the squad, and he stated that he is looking to protect the defender, insisting he is pleased with what he has seen from him recently.
He said: “Just to manage him and protect him a little bit. He is playing, he is good and he is fit and we are very happy with that.”
Maresca on Wesley Fofana not being involved: "Just to manage him and protect him a little bit. He is playing, he is good and he is fit and we are very happy with that."
On Moises Caicedo being on the bench: "Nothing [to do with Barcelona and Arsenal]. The reason he is not in the…
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Injury issues have of course impacted the former Leicester City man greatly since his move to Stamford Bridge, however after two weeks of no football there may be some wondering what the problem could be.
Tosin Adarabioyo and Trevoh Chalobah started at Turf Moor, with the aim being to make it three consecutive clean sheets in the Premier League.
Chelsea have the chance to at least temporarily go second in the league with a win, as close to three points behind Arsenal ahead of the game against them next weekend.