Chelsea suffer double injury blow ahead of Villa trip

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed a double injury blow ahead of the Premier League clash against Aston Villa on the road.

The Blues recently suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium and they face another tough test against the Villans.

Ahead of the visit of Villa Park, Pochettino has revealed that Raheem Sterling and Carney Chukwuemeka won't be available with fresh injuries.

He said: "Sterling suffered a pain in his lower back. Carney feels something in his knee related to his problem before. I hope it's not a big issue and he can be available as soon as possible."

The Blues are currently ninth in the standings with 47 points, six adrift of Manchester United, who are occupying the final Europa League spot.

They have much work to do to qualify for the competition. Another defeat to Unai Emery's side could well end their chances of a top-six finish.

Cole Palmer is expected to be available after a brief illness.