Chelsea are sweating on the fitness of Eden Hazard with the Belgian ruled out to feature against Sunderland tomorrow afternoon and a "major doubt" for the trip to Madrid to face Atletico on Tuesday.
After stating that the whole squad participated in today's training session, Assistant Manager Steve Holland, with Jose Mourinho absent from the press conference, claimed he is yet to ascertain the extent of Hazard's injury. "Hazard won't be fit to play tomorrow. He's not definitely out for Tuesday but he hasn't trained with the squad yet which means he's a major doubt."
Hazard has been integral in Chelsea's push for the Premier League title and advancement into the Champions League semi-finals, where Jose Mourinho's side will face Atletico Madrid, but Hazard's fitness is a major concern. He was withdrawn during the Champions League second-leg match with Paris Saint Germain and is yet to recover from the problem.
On John Terry's future, and suggestions of a new contract for the skipper, Holland said: "Terry has had an outstanding season. We have the best defensive record in the league & he's a major part of that." He then claimed Terry and the club are both eager for him to remain at Stamford Bridge."
Speaking at Cobham this morning in advance of tomorrow’s visit of Sunderland, Holland revealed that full concentration is on the visit of Gus Poyet's struggling side. "This game tomorrow is of huge importance. I don't believe the title will be decided by our match with Liverpool. It will be a very difficult game that we have to approach in a very professional manner."
Holland refused to be drawn in on Chelsea's title prospects, claiming one of three teams could emerge triumphant. "First, second and third position are possible for all three teams at the top. It is very close."
He added: "The objection for this club is to be competing for major honours at the business end of the season. Thankfully we are."