| Chelsea vs Hull City | |
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MATCH INFO |
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MATCH :
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Chelsea vs Hull City
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COMPETITION :
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FA Cup
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| DATE: |
14-02-2026
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TIME:
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01.15 AM IST
11.4 PM UAE
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STADIUM
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Stadium
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Here’s a clean, rewritten match preview injury & team news section based on your text — polished for readability and originality (AdSense-friendly style, no plagiarism risk):
Team News & Injury Updates
Hull City continue to deal with a lengthy injury list as they prepare for Friday’s clash, with several first-team players still unavailable.
Defender Semi Ajayi has not featured since representing Nigeria at AFCON 2025, as he continues his recovery from a hamstring problem. The Tigers are also without a number of additional senior options: Mohamed Belloumi remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, while Cody Drameh is out due to a thigh issue. Midfielder Darko Gyabi is nursing a groin complaint, and Matty Crooks is also ruled out with a hamstring setback. Long-term absentee Eliot Matazo continues his rehabilitation from a serious knee injury and is not expected back anytime soon.
Despite those setbacks, Hull still possess attacking firepower. Oli McBurnie and Joe Gelhardt have been key contributors in the Championship this season, scoring 12 and 10 league goals respectively. Their combined output has provided the backbone of Hull’s forward threat, and both will be crucial if the Tigers are to trouble Chelsea’s defence.
Another major creative outlet comes from the left flank through Ryan Giles. Operating from left-back, Giles has been one of the division’s most productive providers, registering eight league assists so far. Only West Bromwich Albion’s Michael Johnston has managed more in the Championship this campaign. Giles’ overlapping runs and delivery from wide areas could pose a genuine danger to Chelsea, particularly in transition moments.
Chelsea Team News
Chelsea head into the fixture with a few injury concerns of their own following a demanding run of matches.
Marc Cucurella is a fresh doubt after being forced off at half-time during Tuesday’s encounter with Leeds United due to a hamstring complaint. The Spaniard could now join Levi Colwill, who is managing a knee issue, on the sidelines. Youngsters Dario Essugo and Jamie Gittens are also unavailable as they continue recovering from thigh injuries.
There is some positive news in midfield, however. Romeo Lavia has returned to team training after a spell out with a thigh injury. While his reintegration is a boost, the coaching staff are expected to be cautious, and he is unlikely to be thrown straight back into match action.
Elsewhere, several players will be assessed late on before kickoff. Club captain Reece James is recovering from illness, while goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen and defender Tosin Adarabioyo are both dealing with hamstring concerns. A final decision on their availability will be made closer to matchday.
Predicted Rotation & Possible Starters
With head coach Liam Rosenior expected to rotate his squad following Tuesday’s league outing, a number of fringe and returning players could be handed opportunities from the start.
Striker Liam Delap is pushing for inclusion, while winger Alejandro Garnacho could add directness and pace in wide areas if selected. Defensive reinforcements may include Jorrel Hato, Benoit Badiashile, and Wesley Fofana, offering a blend of youth and experience at the back.
There could also be a milestone moment for Mamadou Sarr, who is in line to make only his second competitive appearance for the Blues since featuring in the Club World Cup group-stage clash against Esperance. His involvement would underline Chelsea’s willingness to utilise emerging talent amid their packed schedule.