Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana is set to miss around a month of action after suffering a hamstring injury during the 3-0 win over Aston Villa on Sunday.
The 23-year-old was substituted in the second half after clutching his right leg and heading straight to the dressing room.
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed the extent of the injury post-match.
He said, “It’s unfortunately bad news. It’s a hamstring problem, and it will take at least three to five weeks.
“He could miss up to 10 or 12 games, which is a big loss given how well he’s been performing.”
Fofana has been a key figure for the Blues this season, starting all 12 Premier League games he was available for, aside from the October loss to Liverpool due to suspension.
His absence leaves Maresca with limited options in the center-back position.
Senior right-footed choices include Tosin Adarabioyo and Axel Disasi, while left-footed Benoît Badiashile and Levi Colwill provide further depth.
Renato Veiga, 21, is another potential option who arguably, lacks the needed experience.
Despite Fofana’s setback, Chelsea is enjoying a strong run of form. After back-to-back wins, they have climbed to third in the league.
Recall goals from Nicolas Jackson, Enzo Fernandez, and Cole Palmer sealed the win over Villa, taking the Blues level on points with Arsenal.
Chelsea face nine fixtures across the Premier League and Europa Conference League before January 4.
This includes a trip to Southampton on Wednesday, giving Maresca enough tactical headache without Fofana.
