Chelsea’s growing injury concerns deepened on Monday after Alejandro Garnacho and Pedro Neto were ruled out of the squad for the Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest.
Both players were omitted from the matchday squad submitted ahead of kick-off at Stamford Bridge, forcing interim manager Calum McFarlane into a late reshuffle.
According to reports, the duo picked up knocks in training in the build-up to the game.
The club has not disclosed further details on the injuries or possible recovery timelines.
With options limited, Chelsea turned to youth, handing 18-year-old Jesse Derry a full Premier League debut on the left flank.
The winger, who had previously made a substitute appearance, was drafted straight into the starting XI.
Derry, son of former midfielder Shaun Derry, had impressed at academy level and was seen as a bold selection amid the club’s injury setback.
However, Chelsea’s troubles worsened early in the game.
Taiwo Awoniyi gave Forest the lead before Igor Jesus doubled the advantage from the penalty spot inside the opening 15 minutes.
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The teenager’s debut ended painfully before half-time after a collision with Zach Abbott.
Both players clashed heads while contesting a ball, leaving Derry stretchered off and Abbott also forced out of the game.
Chelsea were awarded a penalty shortly after, but Cole Palmer failed to convert before the break.
The sequence capped a difficult opening half for Chelsea, with injuries and missed chances compounding an already challenging evening.
