Chelsea boss Frank Lampard suffers second injury concern after Kante problem for France
Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has been dealt a second injury concern in as many days after N’Golo Kante failed to appear for France, as Mateo Kovacic picked up a knock during Croatia’s Euro 2020 qualifier against Wales.
Kovacic sustained the injury in the build up to Gareth Bale’s equaliser for Wales
Kovacic sustained the injury in the build up to Gareth Bale’s equaliser for Wales.
He took a knock to his knee, and was replaced by Ivan Rakitic before the second half.
The Croatian midfielder is currently being assessed, and it’s unclear whether he’ll be fit for Chelsea’s match against Newcastle on Saturday (3pm).
If neither Kovacic or Kante are fit for the clash at Stamford Bridge, it means Lampard will only have Jorginho and Ross Barkley available in centre-midfield.
Chelsea injury news: Kante was injured in France's warm up before they faced Iceland (Image: GETTY Images)
The Chelsea boss may be tempted to drop Mason Mount into a central role in the absence of both Kante and Kovacic.
But, Blues fans were given a Kante injury boost on Sunday, as it was revealed that he’s not on the physio bench.
The defensive midfielder was training away from the rest of the French squad, but at least he’s able to train at all.
Kante has had a wretched time with injuries this season, and has only started three Premier League fixtures for the Blues this season.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Chelsea injury news: Kovacic was forced off injured for Croatia against Wales (Image: GETTY Images)
The Frenchman picked up a hamstring problem at the start of May, and missed Chelsea’s final Premier League fixture of last season.
He then developed a knee injury in pre-season, and was out of action with a sprained ankle at the start of this season.
Meanwhile, Kovacic is yet to make a Premier League fixture for Chelsea this season.
He also played for more than 100 minutes in the UEFA Super Cup in August.