Chilwell undergoes successful knee injury
Chelsea left-back Ben Chilwell says he is feeling “positive” after undergoing successful surgery on his knee ligament injury.
The 25-year-old has been sidelined since the Blues’ 4-0 win over Juventus at Stamford Bridge on November 23 when he was forced off with a knee problem in the second half after a coming together with Adrien Rabiot.
The England international could miss the rest of the campaign for Chelsea but has been given a welcome boost with his ligament repair operation.
Chilwell posted on Twitter on Thursday: “Just wanted to let everyone know that the operation yesterday was successful.I feel very positive & motivated to work like a beast to get back on the pitch with my boys soon and help this great club win more trophies. Thank you all for the support and nice messages 💪🏼💙
Marcos Alonso has filled in at left-back in Chilwell’s absence but Thomas Tuchel remains short of cover in the position.
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The Chelsea boss could recall either Ian Maatsen or Emerson Palmieri from their loan spells, while Everton defender Lucas Digne has been linked with a January move to Stamford Bridge.
Meanwhile, N’Golo Kante is nursing a recurring knee issue and Thiago Silva (also knee) remains unavailable until the New Year, while Kai Havertz returned to the bench against Brighton after an illness and Timo Werner is still out with coronavirus.
Reece James and Andreas Christensen also suffered hamstring and back problems respectively in Wednesday’s 1-1 draw with Brighton.
Chelsea face Liverpool in Premier League action this Sunday before playing Tottenham in the Carabao Cup semi-final on January 5.