Avram Grant admits he will have to bring in new players during the transfer window if Chelsea are to challenge for the Premier League title.
The Chelsea squad has been hit by injuries to key players in recent weeks and Grant's resources are likely to be stretched to the limit over the coming weeks.
Ricardo Carvalho and Ashley Cole both face suspensions after being sent off in the 4-4 draw with Aston Villa on Boxing Day.
Frank Lampard could also miss some of the action after hobbling off with a thigh injury, while John Terry and Didier Drogba are among those already sidelined.
Drogba, John Obi Mikel, Michael Essien and Salomon Kalou are all set to travel to the African Cup of Nations in the New Year, and Grant accepts that he will need reinforcements.
The Chelsea manager had been planning to strengthen anyway but acknowledges that the need has now become greater.
"I was hoping to use the transfer window but now, because of the suspensions and injuries, as well as the African Cup, I must think about using it more," Grant said in the Daily Express.
Chelsea are already seven points adrift of Premier League leaders Manchester United but Grant is confident they can still compete for top spot.
He said: "It will be tough for us because of the missing players but I will not give up. I accept the challenge."
