Another injury problem for Chelsea? Nicolas Jackson fitness fear as £32m striker leaves Stamford Bridge with wrist in a splint

The Senegal international gave the underperforming Blues a welcome shot in the arm when netting the only goal of the game in their 1-0 victory over Brighton in the third round of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday. That effort was just his second of the season.

Jackson was replaced late on against the Seagulls, as Armando Broja took his place, but fears were raised afterwards regarding the 22-year-old’s fitness. That is because he was seen sporting a protective cast on his right arm.

Chelsea supporters will be hoping that splint was just precautionary, with Jackson ready to continue filling a central striking berth. The Blues splashed out £32 million ($39m) when luring him away from Villarreal over the summer and are short on attacking options at present with Christopher Nkunku ruled out and Broja still working his way back from a long-term injury absence.

Chelsea, who have picked up just five points from six Premier League games this season, will be back in action on Monday when taking in a derby date with west London neighbours Fulham. Meanwhile, Mauricio Pochettino’s side have been drawn against Championship outfit Blackburn in the Carabao Cup fourth round.