Graham Potter offers update on Azpilicueta injury

An attempted overhead kick by Southampton forward Sekou Mara struck Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta in the face and he had to be stretchered away with an oxygen mask.

There was visible panic and concern as players from both teams quickly began to call for Medical assistance. 

After a lengthy treatment by the Chelsea medical staff that lasted several minutes, Azpilicueta was moved from the pitch and transported straight to the hospital.

He was replaced by Trevoh Chalobah but reassured the Chelsea fans by responding to their round of applause with a thumbs up gesture. 

“He's in hospital so he's in the best place. He's conscious and speaking to his wife so that's good. We'll keep monitoring him,” Potter confirmed.

“We have to take all the precautions now as it was worrying. It was a horrible incident."

The Chelsea boss also added, 

“I think he was unconscious at one point, so it was worrying for everyone. It was accidental but still it was a kick in the face. You can see how bad it was.”

The hope for Chelsea will be that Azpilicueta isn’t out of action for too long as the Blues have a packed schedule. 

Their next fixture is a huge clash against Tottenham Hotspur and in two weeks, they take on Borussia Dortmund in the second leg of their crucial Champions League last-16 tie, after losing the first leg 1-0.

Azpilicueta has not been a regular starter for Chelsea this season, but he has still managed 26 appearances in all competitions for the Blues this term.