Scans on Trevoh Chalobah's hamstring injury have revealed that the Chelsea youngster has avoided a serious issue and could even be back in contention against Everton on 16 December.
The 22-year-old picked up the injury during the 2-1 victory over Watford and it was initially feared that he could be facing a significant spell on the sidelines, with manager Thomas Tuchel admitting extra scans were needed to determine just how severe the issue was.
Fortunately, according to The Athletic's Simon Johnson, it's not that bad.
The results of the scan have suggested that Chalobah does not need a lengthy spell out and could well be back in training next week if all goes well.
Chalobah will miss Wednesday's meeting with Zenit, however, and is also unlikely to feature against Leeds United at the weekend, but he is said to be eyeing the Everton game as a possible return date.
The academy graduate has enjoyed an outstanding breakout year under Tuchel, giving Chelsea enough confidence to pause their pursuit of Sevilla's Jules Kounde.
Chelsea have been linked with Fenerbahce's Attila Szalai, with Hungary boss Marco Rossi claiming a deal is done, but the Telegraph's Matt Law has dismissed the rumours - saying the Champions League holders are not interested in him.
News of Chalobah's potential return is a boost to the Blues, who appear to be overcoming the worst of a mini injury crisis. Romelu Lukaku and Timo Werner are both back fit, while midfielder Mateo Kovacic has resumed light training after eight games out with a hamstring injury.
Forward Kai Havertz is also training with the first team squad after shaking off an injury he picked up against West Ham, meaning Ben Chilwell and N'Golo Kante are the only players who remain on the sidelines.
The absence of a mention for left-back Marcos Alonso suggests the Spaniard has also overcome a back injury, which is vital as Tuchel is already coping without Chilwell for the foreseeable future.
Source : 90min