It would be an understatement to say that Chelsea are struggling right now. Other than the win over West Ham United, in no other game have they been convincing going forward. On the other hand, defensively, they have been terrible. Even against a League One side like Lincoln City, they were shaking at the back and barely edged out a win.
This is not what was expected of them coming into the season, fresh off winning the Club World Cup. Both Enzo Maresca and the club management earned a lot of plaudits for that success. But it won't take long for the fans' mood to change, if performances do not improve soon.
To be fair to Maresca, he has not been dealt the best hand by the club. Levi Colwill suffered an ACL injury in pre-season training and even though the manager seemed keen on a replacement being brought in, one was not signed in the summer.
Now, it looks like two more of his centre-backs have picked up issues. As reported by GOAL, Maresca said in his press conference:
"We have a Tosin injury. He will probably be out until the international break. He has a small injury in his calf. Wesley Fofana had a concussion the other day against Lincoln."
Chelsea confirm triple injury blow at worst possible time
This is on top of Cole Palmer's continuing groin issue, as it has been confirmed that he is out until at least the international break. That leaves Chelsea very short of options, in several positions across the pitch.
The centre-back position becomes of particular concern though. Colwill, Fofana and Adarabioyo are out. Benoit Badiashile is closing in on a return but it is unclear exactly when he will be available. And there are seemingly no plans to bring Axel Disasi back into the first-team fold.
The only positive that might come out of this is that Josh Acheampong is expected to get a few starts. One can only hope that he is able to impress, just like he did in the opening day game against Crystal Palace, and establish himself in the first-team.
There is a belief that he is one of the players coming out of Cobham who has the potential to be world-class one day if his development goes according to plan. This might very well turn out to be the start of that journey for the youngster.