Chelsea have suffered a major blow ahead of the new Premier League season after defender Levi Colwill underwent successful surgery on an anterior cruciate ligament injury. The 22-year-old sustained the injury during the first training session of pre-season on Monday.
Colwill, who started 35 of Chelsea's 38 league games last season, now faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Manager Enzo Maresca highlighted his importance, saying: 'I spoke with him yesterday and I told him that if we achieve what we achieved last year, it is also because of him - and he was a main player for us.'
A club statement confirmed: 'Defender Levi Colwill has today undergone successful surgery to an anterior cruciate ligament injury. Medical assessments confirmed surgery would be the required course of action. Levi will now begin his recovery and be supported by the club's medical department at Cobham during his rehabilitation phase.'
Chelsea have already signed cover in Jorrel Hato from Ajax for around £37 million. The 19-year-old has Champions League experience and has captained Ajax. The club are also set to be boosted by the return of Wesley Fofana, who is close to a return after hamstring surgery in April.
