Speaking after Chelsea defeated Aston Villa, Graham Potter has offered an update on Thiago Silva’s injury. Towards the end of the game, the Brazilian noticed a slight hamstring issue which was a worrying sign.
The veteran Brazilian player, who seems to be ageing like fine wine and shows no signs of slowing down, put up yet another faultless performance. The Blues do not, however, want him to be inured at such a crucial period of the year.
In their matchup with Aston Villa, Chelsea emerged victorious thanks to a brilliant Mason Mount brace. Although his first goal was perhaps fortunate, the English midfielder’s second goal cannot be disputed. The midfield wizard’s stunning free-kick was outstanding.
Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arizzabalaga was another player who performed superbly. Under Potter, the much-mocked shot-stopper has seen a sort of comeback and has cemented his spot as the starter ahead of Eduardo Mendy. As per usual, Thiago Silva controlled the backline and displayed excellent awareness to stop attacking moves. But the Blues will be hopeful that the veteran’s injury is not serious and that he will return very soon.
The manager expressed his satisfaction with the player’s effort, but he hoped Thiago wasn’t hurt. As reported by Football London, Potter said:
“He is at the highest level you can think of as a character and as a man. How he leads the team, how he is playing, he has made some really important blocks and interceptions. He has that know-how that you can’t put a price on. He felt a little tightness in his hamstring so we’ll see how he recovers for Wednesday but apart from that, he is a top person.”
For the Blues, Wesley Fofana is already sidelined with an injury and won’t return until the end of the year. Potter would not want another injury, especially since Reece James, is also expected to miss the remainder of the year.
The only two possibilities to play in that position in the absence of Silva are Kalidou Koulibaly and Trevoh Chalobah since Potter is likely to start Cesar Azpilicueta in James’ place. Denis Zakaria could also be a potential choice.
The Blues will benefit much if he is just temporarily sidelined, and they must take care of the Brazilian to ensure that he stays fit throughout the season.
