Avram Grant is on the lookout for new signings to bolster his team during the January transfer window. He believes if Chelsea are to remain in the hunt for the title that they will need to pick up some quality acquisitions to their injury hit squad.

A number of key players have joined the injury list in recent weeks and the choice for starting lineups has become stretched. Added to this both Ricardo Carvalho and Ashley Cole both face suspensions after being sent off against Aston Villa in the thrilling 4-4 draw on Boxing Day.

Lampard, Terry and Drogba are all sidelined. Matters will not be helped when 4 first team players leave for the African Nations Cup mid January. These players include Drogba, Mikel, Essien and Kalou leaving Avram Grant scrapping for replacements.

The Chelsea manager was always planning a foray into the transfer market in January. However, his needs have become even 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,"

Going into the new year Chelsea are 7 points adrift in the championship race. It is not a bridge they can easily fill without new acquisitions and squad depth.