Chelsea's Maxence Lacroix Faces Extended Injury Layoff

Chelsea is concerned that defender Maxence Lacroix could be sidelined until January following a serious hamstring injury sustained during their Carabao Cup match against Liverpool.

The injury occurred late in the first half while Lacroix was attempting to block a shot, and he is expected to miss up to 10 matches. Manager Xabi Alonso indicated that Lacroix will be unavailable at least until after the international break, with reports suggesting a longer absence may be likely.

Lacroix, who joined Chelsea from Crystal Palace for £52 million, has been a key player this season, starting in all but one of the team's 11 matches. Alonso is now considering alternative options for the center-back position, as other defenders are also injured. Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, and Josh Acheampong are among those available to step in.