Chelsea's new era under Liam Rosenior begins this weekend with an FA Cup third-round tie against Charlton Athletic, but the manager faces a significant selection headache. Nine players from the two squads are confirmed absentees for the match at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, 10th January 2026.
Rosenior's Bridge bow amid absentees
Liam Rosenior officially took charge at Chelsea this week after watching from the stands as the Blues lost to Fulham. His first match in the dugout offers a seemingly favourable fixture against Championship opposition. Charlton Athletic currently sit 19th in the second tier, just five points above the relegation zone. However, a lengthy list of unavailable players for both sides will test the depth of each squad.
Team news: Who is out for the FA Cup clash?
The injury and suspension list is substantial. For the visiting Addicks, defender Reece Burke is out with a muscular injury until later in January. Winger Onel Hernandez and full-back Kayne Ramsay are also sidelined with muscular and calf issues respectively, each expected to miss another week. Left-back Josh Edwards continues his recovery from an ankle problem.
Striker Matty Godden remains a long-term absentee with a knee injury. Manager Nathan Jones explained in December that an initial procedure was unsuccessful, requiring a second operation. Godden is hoped to return to training soon with a view to playing again in January.
Chelsea's list is equally concerning. Marc Cucurella is suspended after being sent off in the previous match. Midfielder Romeo Lavia is not expected back from a hamstring issue until early January, with former boss Enzo Maresca stating the club were unsure of the timescale.
In a major blow, defender Levi Colwill is out for the season after undergoing successful surgery for an ACL injury in August. Youngster Dario Essugo is also not ready to return, with the club taking a cautious approach to his recovery.
Additionally, winger Mykhailo Mudryk is absent due to an ongoing suspension related to an Anti-Doping Rule Violation charge from The FA. His case remains active.
Implications for the FA Cup third round
The sheer volume of absences will force both managers to improvise. For Rosenior, it presents an immediate challenge in his first game, limiting his options as he looks to implement his ideas. For Charlton's Nathan Jones, facing Premier League opposition away from home is difficult enough without key players missing.
This FA Cup fixture, however, offers a potential distraction from league struggles for Charlton and a chance for Chelsea's new boss to secure a positive start. All eyes will be on Stamford Bridge to see how both teams cope with their depleted squads in this traditional cup competition.
