Fulham defender Carlos Salcido is facing a month on the sidelines with an ankle injury.
The 30-year-old Mexico international ruptured a ligament in a tackle by Ashley Young during Saturday's 1-1 draw with Aston Villa.
"Carlos is bearing the consequences of the challenge and unfortunately he has ruptured a ligament on his ankle," boss Mark Hughes said.
"The likelihood is he will be out for three to four weeks."
Salcido, who signed from Dutch club PSV Eindhoven on a three-year contract in August, will miss the trip to Stamford Bridge to play Chelsea on Wednesday.
"It's disappointing because Carlos has made a huge impact during the short time that he's been with us so to not have him available going into a game against Chelsea is a big loss for us," Hughes added.