Chelsea defender Benoit Badiashile has been ruled out for “an extended period” due to a hamstring injury.
The 22-year-old picked up the issue in training last week, forcing him to miss the Blues’ defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad on Sunday, and he now faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Frank Lampard had stated Badiashile had suffered a groin injury, but the club have now confirmed it is a hamstring problem, with no clear timeframe given on his return.
There are fears he could miss the start of next season, in what would be a major blow to Chelsea and incoming boss Mauricio Pochettino as he looks to use the summer to work with squad and turn the club’s fortunes around.
The Blues will finish the season no higher than 11th in the Premier League after a dismal campaign, one that saw Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter sacked before Lampard arrived for an unsuccessful spell as caretaker boss.
Mason Mount, Reece James, N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic are among those already out injured heading into the final two games of the season, as Chelsea travel to face Manchester United before hosting Newcastle on the final day of the season.
Badiashile will not be involved in either of those matches, with his focus now on trying to return in time for the new season.
A statement on Chelsea’s website confirmed: “Benoit Badiashile has sustained a hamstring injury which will rule the defender out for an extended period.
“The 22-year-old underwent assessment with specialists earlier this week and Benoit will now begin a rehabilitation programme with the club’s medical department.”
