Chelsea striker Sam Kerr is not expected to return until February or March, says manager Sonia Bompastor.
The Australian international suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in January 2024 during a club training camp.
Kerr, 31, is one of several Chelsea players currently out with the knee injury, as well as midfielder Sophie Ingle, defender Kadeisha Buchanan and striker Mia Fishel.
Meanwhile, England international Lauren James is expected to be out until the new year.
James, 23, has not featured since October’s victory over FC Twente in the Women’s Champions League due to a calf injury.
In better news for Chelsea, England full-back Niamh Charles is “completely fit” and will be available for selection for this weekend’s Women’s Super League match against Brighton after recovering from a dislocated shoulder.
