Graham Potter has provided an update on Denis Zakaria after the midfielder picked up a knock against Fulham. The 26-year-old was replaced by Jorginho just minutes following Kalidou Koulibaly's equaliser and was believed to have sustained a muscular injury.
The Switzerland international hobbled down the tunnel, occasionally clutching his upper thigh while looking immensely disappointed. Zakaria has quickly become an integral feature in the Blue side amid a string of standout performances.
He has featured in each of the Blues' previous six fixtures, marshalling Potter's midfield to the great effect despite his teammates' unconvincing form. Zakaria, who is on loan at Chelsea from Juventus until the end of the season, is likely to undergo various scans to determine the extent of his injury and he's set to be greatly missed.
READ MORE: Chelsea alerted by Dortmund in Youssoufa Moukoko transfer after Newcastle hijack 'ultimate' deal
Speaking to the media after the Blues' defeat at Craven Cottage, Potter issued a preliminary update on the Swiss' injury. Potter said: "The only assessment is it's at the top of the quad. He felt it when he cleared the ball. In terms of the extent, it's too early to say."
Zakaria has joined the growing list of injuries at Cobham training ground, with as many as 10 players believed to be on the doctor's table. Raheem Sterling and Christian Pulisic are set to be out for some time after suffering knocks.
The former was replaced by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang inside the opening couple of minutes in Chelsea's Premier League clash with City. The 28-year-old winger fell to the floor with a grimace on his face following a collision with John Stones.
While the latter, Pulisic, was also on the end of a challenge from Stones. Amid all the absentees, Reece James and Ruben Loftus-Cheek have both returned to the training pitch.
With all the absentees and headaches, Potter will be increasingly inclined to sign more players in the January transfer window. Chelsea have already brought in Benoit Badiashile, Andrey Santos, David Datro Dofana and, more recently, Joao Felix on loan in what has been a jam-packed month.
READ NEXT:
How Kai Havertz released his fury as pressure builds on Graham Potter amid Chelsea fans' rage
Four things learned as Joao Felix debut exposes brutal Chelsea realities in defeat to Fulham
Every word Graham Potter said on Joao Felix red card, Zakaria injury, Chelsea supporters' anger
Chelsea player ratings vs Fulham as Joao Felix spoils debut, Mason Mount and Kepa struggle
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
