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Chelsea have received a potential injury boost ahead of their Carabao Cup fourth-round meeting with Liverpool after striker Emmanuel Emegha shared pictures of himself in training, raising hopes that he could soon return to action.
According to a report by Football London on Monday, 26 October, 2026, the forward posted two pictures on his Instagram story ahead of Wednesday’s trip to Anfield, offering some encouragement to manager Xabi Alonso as he deals with several injury concerns.
Chelsea suffered a 2-0 home defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, with injuries affecting Alonso’s selection.
Joao Pedro missed the match after sustaining a knee problem in training, adding to the club’s growing list of unavailable players.
Reece James, Emiliano Martinez, Pep Chavarria and Jamie Gittens are also among those dealing with fitness issues.
With Pedro’s availability for the Liverpool fixture uncertain, Emegha’s potential return could provide the manager with another attacking option.
The Dutch striker joined Chelsea from Strasbourg in a reported £23 million deal but has yet to make his debut for the club.
He featured in two behind-closed-doors friendlies before Chelsea’s pre-season tour of Australia and Asia but missed the trip after suffering an injury.
Alonso recently indicated that Emegha still needed time to recover, suggesting he could remain unavailable for several weeks. His latest social media activity, however, has raised hopes of progress in his rehabilitation.
The Chelsea manager has previously spoken positively about the striker’s attributes and the threat he could pose once fully fit.
“When he’s fit, he’s very special because he’s 1.95 metres tall; he’s quick, he attacks the space, he’s a threat, so he needs to be fully fit,” Alonso said.
“He’s had little things; unfortunately he’s not been available. But we are looking forward to when he feels good and can help the team, but it’s going to be difficult for the defenders when he’s in good shape.”
Despite the encouraging signs, Emegha’s involvement against Liverpool remains uncertain. Danny Welbeck could still lead the attack if the Dutchman is not ready to return, particularly with Chelsea needing a reliable forward option for the cup tie.
Alonso will also be hoping for further progress from Chavarria, while Malo Gusto has already returned to the squad.