Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata is reportedly grieving the death of a close friend and may delay his return to action.
The 25-year-old has missed the Blues' last two matches through a minor back problem and was already expected to sit out the FA Cup meeting with Newcastle United on Sunday.
According to the Daily Mail, Antonio Conte has given the 25-year-old permission to take time away from his treatment as he comes to terms with the loss of his friend, who died in a car crash.
Morata is now also likely to be absent for the visit of Bournemouth in the Premier League next Wednesday.
Chelsea are seeking another striker to either partner or replace Morata up top, with Edin Dzeko of Roma their top target heading into the final throes of the winter transfer window.
