Roberto Di Matteo has admitted that he faces an anxious wait over John Terry's fitness but Chelsea's interim manager hinted that he may be forced to risk the defender at a critical time of the season.

Terry, who has suffered cracked ribs, will not be involved against Wigan Athletic on Saturday and there is unease about the extent of the contribution he can make over the remainder of the campaign before the semi-finals of the Champions League and FA Cup.

"Every time he gets a knock he will go a step back," said Di Matteo who, despite understanding that Terry requires "time to heal", cannot help but feel a craving to call upon an influential figure. "There's a risk every time you go on the pitch," he added. " It's something players have to live with."

The captain lasted an hour in midweek when Benfica were eliminated from the Champions League. "We had to take him off because he sustained another knock on his rib and couldn't breathe," said the manager. Terry's participation could be critical in the semi-final with Barcelona. "We've got some games before that," Di Matteo said. "It all depends on how quick he can heal and the pain level he can sustain. As soon as that is possible to do he will train."

There are other troubles, too, with Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard absent with knee and ankle injuries respectively. Chelsea, in common with the other clubs, have the Easter programme to face, with the Wigan game followed by an away fixture at Fulham on Monday. Di Matteo will indulge in some squad rotation.

Chelsea, five points behind fourth-placed Tottenham in the Premier League, have much to do before a return to the Champions League is guaranteed for next season. Di Matteo believes the issue will not be settled until "the last days of the season". He emphasises that his side "have to ensure they finish the season well to guarantee Champions League football for next season".

There is a certain nervousness to the club. They are still peeved their FA cup semi-final with Tottenham at Wembley a week on Sunday is to have a 6pm kick-off. This is resented because the tie with Barcelona begins three days later. Chelsea seem not to appreciate that they will stay in England while the opposition travel to face them. Nor does anyone appear to realise the clubs decided long ago to take the maximum revenue from TV companies, irrespective of how great the inconvenience is to those fans who attend games.

Di Matteo is in earnest about the intensity that is now essential for Chelsea. "They need to drive themselves," he said. "A lot of them have still ambition wherever they are going to be – here or elsewhere. Most of them have contracts. They do not know what might happen. Maybe a few out of contract but not decided if here or not. Everybody has their interests to finish season well for themselves and the club."

The caretaker's own status is also a significant issue. "I've enjoyed my times with players worked with at MK Dons, West Brom," Di Matteo said. "I am still in contact with players and staff there. Obviously the ultimate challenge to be able to work with players at top end and be able to fight for trophies and top four. That's the ultimate challenge."