Fear amongst Chelsea would have accelerated at some pace in the week when it was confirmed that Thiago Silva had damaged ligaments in his knee. The 38-year-old was forced off in last week's defeat to Tottenham in the first half to leave Graham Potter with a gaping hole in his backline.
In a season long-filled with inconsistent performances and uninspiring individual outings, Silva has been one of, if not the, best players since Potter replaced Thomas Tuchel in September. The Brazilian has been a rock in the Blues backline and has produced a number of game-defining moments.
The experienced centre-back recently extended his stay at Stamford Bridge for a further 12 months, meaning he will be 39 when he eventually ends his four-year stay in London. When it comes to it, replacing Silva will be a tough task considering the magnitude and quality the South American brings.
