Avram Grant insists Chelsea will draw on all their reserves of strength as they confront the latest setback in a troubled season at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea trail leaders Manchester United by seven points and any further slip-ups during the Christmas schedule would leave their hopes of wrestling the title back from Old Trafford in ruins.
But Grant is refusing to raise the white flag and has steeled Stamford Bridge for the hardship ahead.
"As long as we have a chance we will do everything we can to catch Manchester United and Arsenal," he said.
"We have character and will not give up. We will do anything to challenge them.
"This job has been a big challenge from the day I started it and I will accept this latest challenge.
"Football is always a big test when you have a bad time. It's not easy but this is the situation and we'll make the best of it.
"I'm waiting for the day when I can be like other managers and have all my players available. I think that time will come one day."