Nkunku, Palmer, Colwill - Latest Chelsea injury news and return dates for Burnley with new worry

Mauricio Pochettino is hoping that a two-week break from club football can do his Chelsea squad some good as they look to push on in the final stretch of the season. The Blues are within touching distance of the European places and also have an FA Cup semi-final to look forward to.

They will be aiming to bring back several of their long-term absentees in order to boost the chances of a strong end to what has been yet another disappointing and frustrating campaign. Meanwhile,those that are away on international duty are aiming to stake their claim ahead of a summer of major tournaments.

In an ideal world Pochettino will be able to boost his player's chances of being involved as form picks up for the final two months. Here, football.london has the latest injury news from the first week of the international break.

Palmer was absent from training at St George's park on Wednesday as England upped preparations ahead of a friendly against Brazil on Saturday night. The 21-year-old midfielder, along with Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka and Jordan Henderson, worked on his own rehabilitation programme.

Injury: Unknown

Predicted return date: Burnley (H) – Monday, March 30

What Pochettino has said: N/A

Shortly after returning from the treatment room in November, James suffered another hamstring injury in Chelsea's clash against Everton. The defender has been out ever since, but he's recently begun his recovery phase.

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Injury: Hamstring

Predicted return date: April

What Pochettino has said: «We were talking and he has started his recovery, one day closer to being with the group.