Chelsea are concerned that Maxence Lacroix could be sidelined until January after suffering a serious hamstring injury during Wednesday’s Carabao Cup defeat by Liverpool, potentially ruling the defender out for up to 10 matches.
The 26-year-old France international was injured towards the end of the first half while sprinting back to block an attempted shot. Chelsea eventually lost the tie on penalties, but Lacroix’s fitness has emerged as another concern for manager Xabi Alonso.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Manchester United, Alonso said the defender would be unavailable for several weeks and was unlikely to return before the international break. Chelsea have yet to confirm the full extent of the injury, although reports suggest his absence could extend into January.
Lacroix joined Chelsea from Crystal Palace for a reported £52m fee during the summer and has quickly established himself as an important member of the squad, starting 10 of the club’s 11 matches in all competitions this season. His potential absence would leave Alonso with fewer defensive options during a demanding period of the campaign.
Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana and Josh Acheampong are available to cover at centre-back, while Jorrel Hato and Aaron Anselmino are currently injured. Alonso praised Fofana’s performance against Liverpool despite his missed penalty in the shootout, describing the defender as consistent and strong. He also confirmed that Acheampong could feature in the position, with Hato another option once he recovers.
Alonso provided further updates on his squad, revealing that goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is being fitted with a protective mask as he recovers from a broken jaw. Midfielder Moises Caicedo, meanwhile, escaped injury despite concerns following the Liverpool match.
Chelsea head into the weekend sitting fifth in the Premier League with 13 points from eight matches. However, having kept only one clean sheet during that period, the club will be keen to improve defensively as they prepare for a crucial run of fixtures.
No comments: