Enzo Maresca says he is happy with Chelsea’s January transfer window despite losing strikers Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu to injury.
Both strikers came off during the Blues’ 2-1 win over West Ham on Monday and though Jackson’s is not thought to be serious, deputy Guiu looks set for a long lay-off with Maresca it is a “bad” injury.
Jackson will also miss Saturday’s FA Cup game against Brighton on Saturday due to a hamstring problem.
“I said after the West Ham game that the things that we planned in terms of players that had the desire to leave and the players that we need,” said Maresca.
“In the end, I think we did all of the things we needed. Before the last game, we had two strikers, Nico and Marc.
“Sometimes we adapt also Christo [Nkunku] there, but in case both of them are out, we are going to find a different solution.”
Felix AC Milan move ‘good’ for player
Chelsea sold six players during the winter window, with Joao Felix, Ben Chilwell, Axel Disasi, Renato Veiga, Cesare Casadei and Carney Chukwuemeka all allowed to leave.
Midfielder Mathis Amougou, 19, was the club’s only new signing from St Etienne.
On Felix’s exit, Maresca added: “We decided, all together, that it was a good option for him to leave.
“To be honest, he never complained. He has been very good with us, professional, just a matter of my decision.
“The reason why is because I think we need defensive balance and when you have so many attacking players, sometimes you can concede transitions and goals. I don’t like that.”
Nkunku future after United links
Maresca also said Christopher Nkunku, who had been linked with a January move to Manchester United, will get more minutes.
“Yes, for sure, for sure,” he added. “I spoke already last week about Christo.
“Against West Ham, he played already more or less half an hour. From now on, he can hopefully get some more minutes and help us.”