Chelsea have experienced several injury-related challenges during the international break, with key players being forced out of action. England international Jamie Gittens was seen using crutches after leaving a match against Kazakhstan in the 39th minute due to an injury. He was substituted after limping off the field and later departed the stadium on crutches, sparking concerns about his availability for his club. England U21 manager Lee Carsley confirmed that Gittens had suffered a kick to his ankle and would return to his club for further evaluation. Back-up goalkeeper Mike Penders has also faced setbacks, as he has been omitted from Belgium’s squad for their Nations League match against Italy. Reports indicate that Penders may have injured his quadriceps during training, which could keep him out of action for weeks or even months. Currently, Penders is the understudy to first-choice goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and has started both of Chelsea’s Carabao Cup victories this season. In addition to Gittens and Penders, Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro had previously withdrawn from their national teams due to fitness concerns. These absences could place pressure on Chelsea’s squad depth as the club aims to secure a place in the Champions League and compete for domestic trophies. The team is set to face Bournemouth in a Premier League match on October 10 at Stamford Bridge, which will test their ability to manage these challenges effectively.