Defender Maxence Lacroix could be sidelined until January after a serious hamstring injury. The 26‑year‑old France international suffered the setback while trying to block a shot in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup penalty‑loss to Liverpool. Manager Xabi Alonso said he expects Lacroix "not to be ready before the international break" and that he "will be a few weeks out", hinting at up to ten missed matches.
The injury is a major blow for Alonso, who has started the £52 million summer signing in all but one of Chelsea’s 11 games this season. Only attacker Morgan Rogers has featured more often. Chelsea’s back‑line options now rest on a six‑man group that includes Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Josh Acheampong, Jorrel Hato and Aaron Anselmino, though the latter two are also injured.
Alonso praised the alternatives, especially Wes, noting his consistency and strength. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez is receiving a special mask for a broken jaw, and midfielder Moises Caicedo escaped injury despite concerns. Chelsea sit fifth in the Premier League with 13 points from eight games but have managed only one clean sheet.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing