This archive report was first published on 9 September 2019.
Chelsea manager Frank Lampard is facing a fresh injury headache after left-back Emerson Palmieri picked up a hamstring injury on international duty.
The 25-year-old Brazilian-born defender has been a key player for the Blues this season, impressing Lampard with his performances on the left side of the back four.
However, his injury, which occurred during Italy's Euro 2020 qualifier against Finland on Sunday night, has raised concerns for Lampard ahead of the team's upcoming matches.
Emerson had played the full 90 minutes in Italy's win over Armenia on Thursday, but lasted just eight minutes against Finland before limping off the pitch.
He attempted to chase down Teemu Pukki, but the Norwich striker streaked clear of him, leaving Emerson slumped on the pitch before being replaced.
With games coming thick and fast for Chelsea, Lampard will be concerned about the impact of Emerson's injury on the team's performance.
The Blues face a busy schedule, including a trip to Wolves next weekend, as well as matches against Valencia in the Champions League and Premier League leaders Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.
Emerson has made 39 appearances for Chelsea since joining the club from Roma in January 2018, but has seen both Antonio Conte and Maurizio Sarri prefer Marcos Alonso in the past.
