Ben Chilwell will miss the World Cup in Qatar after Chelsea confirmed he has suffered a 'significant' hamstring injury which could keep him sidelined for up to three months.
The 25-year-old pulled up in the final moments of their 2-1 win over Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday night in the Champions League.
He had to be carried off the pitch by the Chelsea medical team, while in serious discomfort, as teammates came over to him and offered their support.
Chilwell left Stamford Bridge on crutches and a scan took place on Friday to learn the extent of the injury and whether the England international would be available for the World Cup later this month.
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There were fears that the injury was serious and Chelsea have now confirmed those fears by issuing a statement which rules Chilwell out of the World Cup.
A statement read: "Following the injury sustained in our recent game against Dinamo Zagreb, Ben has undergone a scan on his hamstring.
"Results show that Ben has suffered a significant injury and the defender is unfortunately expected to miss the World Cup.
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"Ben will now begin a rehabilitation programme with the club’s medical department."
Chilwell joins the growing injury list at Chelsea, with Wesley Fofana and N'Golo Kante both missing the World Cup.
Reece James is also sidelined, but is pushing to be on the plane later this month for the tournament.
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Graham Potter was hoping for the best on Friday prior to the scan, but expressed his disappointment.
"It's disappointing, of course."
Chelsea have three games left to play before the World Cup, with Arsenal, Man City and Newcastle United all awaiting the Blues.
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As per The Telegraph, Chilwell could now face up to three months out which could see him not return until the New Year.
Chilwell has only just returned from a long-term ACL injury which saw him work extremely hard to get fit in time for the start of this season and in contention for a spot in Gareth Southgate's 26-man squad.
But now his worst fears have been confirmed, his World Cup dream is over and now the focus is on his rehabilitation as the left-back looks to get fully fit again.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Ben Chilwell, Chelsea, Football World Cup, Football, England
