Chelsea injury update: Maxence Lacroix, Emi Martinez, Joao Pedro latest news and return dates

Chelsea expect to welcome back Acheampong, Martinez, and Joao Pedro after the international break, though Lacroix and James face longer absences.

Chelsea are hoping for a fitness boost after the international break, with several key players working their way back to availability.

Josh Acheampong missed the Sunderland trip with a minor niggle but is expected to return for the Leeds match on November 21. Emi Martinez underwent jaw surgery after a clash with Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite and has returned to training, though manager Xabi Alonso decided not to risk him against Sunderland.

Alonso said Martinez would use another week or 10 days to adjust to his protective mask before becoming available after the break.

Joao Pedro sustained a thigh injury before the Tottenham derby and remained with the club rather than joining Brazil on international duty. Alonso offered no timeline, saying the club would assess his recovery after the break. Reece James faces a longer spell out after undergoing minor knee surgery in October, with Standard Sport understanding he is unlikely to return for around three months.

Maxence Lacroix, injured in the Carabao Cup defeat at Liverpool, is feared to be sidelined until the turn of the year, similar to James's timeline. Defender Lutshyn Hato is also struggling with a back problem but there is hope he could return after the international break.