Kepa, Chilwell, Kovacic, Chukwuemeka: Potter hands Chelsea double blow ahead of Arsenal clash

Graham Potter has confirmed the Chelsea team news to face Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.

Chelsea host Arsenal in their final home league game before the World Cup break, with two away trips to conclude the opening part of the campaign.

They will be hoping to clinch a win over their London counterparts, who are currently top of the table, with the gap between the sides already 10 points after 12 games played.

Chelsea have had their injury problems. Wesley Fofana (knee), Reece James (knee) and N’Golo Kante are already sidelined, while Kalidou Koulibaly and Mateo Kovacic have recovered from issues, with both training ahead of the London derby.

"Kovacic trained today, so he's in contention," confirmed Potter on Friday.

Ben Chilwell suffered a hamstring injury against Dinamo Zagreb in midweek, pulling up in the closing stages, and Potter has confirmed he will undergo a scan on Friday.

He said: "He's going to go for a scan later this afternoon. He feels okay, but aware of the injury.

"We need to let the swelling settle down, hence the delay of scan.

"I wouldn't say (he) fears the worst. Until we get the scan, it's difficult to say.

"At the moment, we are hopeful and fingers crossed. It's disappointing, of course."

Kepa Arrizabalaga will also miss the game with a foot problem, Potter confirmed on Wednesday after he was spotted on crutches, which will see Edouard Mendy continue in goal.

Speaking to BT Sport, Potter said: "No he won’t be okay for Sunday (vs Arsenal).

“It’s only precautionary (crutches) to keep weight off the foot, progressing well, but won’t be available for Sunday."

Kepa is not expected to play before the World Cup, giving Edouard Mendy the chance to start the games against Arsenal, Man City and Newcastle.

On if Kepa will play before World Cup, Potter replied: "No, I don't think so."

Meanwhile, Carney Chukwuemeka's absence has been put down to a hamstring injury, with Potter adding: "Carney has a slight issue with his hamstring that we are getting to the bottom of."