Drogba boost for Blues

Drogba: Fitness boost

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Didier Drogba could be in action again as early as Saturday, according to assistant coach Ray Wilkins.

Scans show the Blues striker, who was carried off in the 3-0 victory against Tottenham at the weekend, has suffered no serious damage to his calf.

The Ivory Coast international will not be included in Wednesday's Carling Cup encounter against QPR but should be back in action for Saturday's Premier League trip to Wigan.

Wilkins admitted he feared the worst as Drogba left the pitch at the weekend and is delighted the talismanic forward is not facing a lengthy spell out.

"Didier had a scan and there's no problem with his calf," said Wilkins. "It was just the most horrendous bout of cramp.

"We thought he couldn't release the muscle and it might be something more nasty but he'll be able to take part on Saturday. It is very good news for us."

Changes

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti is expected to make a few adjustments to his squad ahead of Wednesday's cup tie, with a selection of fringe players and youngsters given their chance to shine.

Wilkins confirmed Academy players Sam Hutchinson, Fabio Borini and Jeffrey Bruma will be in the squad, while Joe Cole and Yuri Zhirkov will be in the startling line-up against Rangers.

"We haven't finalised the side yet but Joe Cole and Zhirkov will both start, which is good news," added Wilkins. "They'll be very important players for us as the season progresses.

"It's nice to see them come back in. When you can't use someone of Joe's ability, any side would miss him. He has that bit of fantasy that can open up defences, so we have missed him."

He added: "The youngsters are all players who have impressed Carlo since he's been here.

"This gives us an opportunity to bring these players in and use them later in the season. If we progress, hopefully we'll be able to use them in the Carling Cup.

"The transfer ban, although we'll appeal it, offers the younger players at the club a great opportunity to impress.

"They'll be in the squad. Whether they'll start is another matter."