Mason Mount, Reece James & rest - Chelsea injury news and return dates ahead of Carabao Cup final vs Liverpool

Liverpool are sweating on the fitness of Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino ahead of the Carabao Cup final against Chelsea on Sunday.

The strike duo both suffered injuries in last week’s 2-0 Champions League defeat of Inter Milan at the San Siro.

Jota sustained an ankle issue and was replaced at half-time by Firmino.

However, the Brazil international - who opened the scored in the win - picked up a muscle problem.

The pair were absent for Saturday’s 3-1 success over Norwich and Jurgen Klopp has admitted he does not know if they’ll be available to face Chelsea.

Certainly, it will be a blow for Liverpool at Wembley if Jota and Firmino cannot play.

They are currently the only players on the Anfield treatment table, though.

Here’s a look at Chelsea’s injury situation ahead of the final.

Mason Mount

The midfielder has been one of Chelsea's star players this season.

In total, he's registered seven goals and eight assists and is among the best players in the Premier League in his position.

Mount suffered an ankle injury in the Blues' 2-1 defeat of Palmeiras in the Club World Cup final.

He missed Chelsea's 1-0 victory at Crystal Palace on Saturday and may not be fit to face Lille in the Champions League tomorrow.

But manager Thomas Tuchel has admitted that his side are pushing for Mount to be fit for the Carabao Cup final.

He said: “Mason did a very good individual training session yesterday.

“I think he will try to come back to team training today, but I think he’s been out a little too long to start the game.

Potential return game: Liverpool, Sunday 27 February

Reece James

The defender has been missed by Chelsea, having not played since 29 December.

James suffered a hamstring injury in the 1-1 draw with Brighton. He had been expected to feature at the Club World Cup but suffered a setback.

Speaking last week, Tuchel was hopeful of the England international - who’s bagged five goals in 25 games this term - being back in training soon.

However, in his latest update ahead of the Lille game, Tuchel has admitted that James is still to return to training.

Potential return game: still unclear.

Callum Hudson-Odoi

The winger has made 27 appearances for the Blues this season.

But Hudson-Odoi missed the Palace win because of an Achilles problem.

He looks set to be ruled out of the Lille game as he did not train yesterday.

Hudson-Odoi may be doubtful to face Liverpool.

Potential return game: still unclear

Cesar Azpilicueta

The Chelsea captain was also absent against Palace because of a groin issue.

Tuchel revealed that Azpilicueta come through training unscathed on Sunday, though, and will be involved against Lille if he does not suffer a setback.

The Chelsea boss said: “Callum did not train yesterday but Azpi trained and had no reaction so if it stays like this then he’s available for tomorrow.”

Should everything go smoothly, Azpilicuta should be fine to line-up against Liverpool.

Potential return game: Lille, Tuesday 22 February.

Ben Chilwell

The left-back suffered a knee injury against Juventus in November.

It was decided the following month that Chilwell would undergo surgery for his problem.

The former Leicester City defender’s season is now over and he won’t play again until next term.

Potential return game: N/A