Stephen McPhail, who has only recently returned to action, has been ruled out of the Stamford Bridge clash having taken a blow to his pancreas during Tuesday`s 2-0 win over Peterborough that required hospital treatment.
Striker Jay Bothroyd is also a major doubt having suffered suspected ankle ligament damage against Posh, with the club awaiting the results of a scan before confirming the extent of the damage.
The Bluebirds, who have seen their financial struggles attract the headlines this week, are already without defenders Mark Hudson (ankle) and Miguel Comminges (thigh), midfielders Gavin Rae (hamstring) and Joe Ledley (hips) and forwards Josh Magennis (broken fibula) and Kelvin Etuhu (ankle).
Defender Tony Capaldi is cup-tied having played for Leeds earlier in the competition during his loan spell at Elland Road.
Darcy Blake was also forced off in midweek due a back problem but he should be available, while Michael Chopra and Gabor Gyepes will be asked to battle through illness.
Source: PA
Source: PA