Enzo Maresca could soon add another player to strongest Chelsea squad without spending a penny

Though Chelsea have avoided being hit by a big injury crisis, Enzo Maresca has been left particularly light in one position. Despite beginning the season in the starting XI and returning recently, captain Reece James is once again absent because of a new hamstring issue.

As a result of him being fit to feature in just four Premier League games this season, Malo Gusto has been required on several occasions but he has also missed games with the France international absent against Leicester City along with Pedro Neto.

"Malo was with us but during the night, he unfortunately did not feel well in terms of ill," Maresca said when asked for an injury update after the 2-1 win. "Pedro, he had a problem with his international team. There was a chance he could be with us but we didn't take any risks for this game and hopefully he can be available for the next game."

On James, after confirming he had picked up a fresh issue, he added: "We didn't have any update on Reece. We still have to wait for some day when he is going to do a scan again and we will see." Chelsea have a plethora of options in most positions, but there are clear issues at full-back.

Marc Cucurella has been needed to switch over from left-back at times but Maresca would certainly prefer a natural right-footer in the role and he can get exactly that without spending a penny. Over the summer, a few months on from signing a new contract, Alfie Gilchrist joined Sheffield United on loan.

The 20-year-old has featured in every Championship game under Chris Wilder with the Blades third in the table. The Cobham graduate is undoubtedly gaining valuable experience and Maresca will be hoping he returns to Stamford Bridge ready to make an impact in the senior team.

Mauricio Pochettino was a huge fan of the defender and he could be set for a prominent role in the long-term under Maresca. Having come through the club's ranks, Gilchrist has not cost Chelsea a penny and given the issues that have already emerged in his position, could go immediately into the matchday squad.

Join the football.london Chelsea WhatsApp community

Sign up to our Chelsea WhatsApp service and get all the latest breaking news and in-depth stories from football.london's dedicated Chelsea writers direct to your phone.

By signing up to this free service you will be the first to know the news from Stamford Bridge as it happens.

To join our Chelsea community, all you have to do is click this link to join and you're in!