Chelsea have been dealt a major blow ahead of the new Premier League season after defender Levi Colwill suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in training. The 22-year-old underwent successful surgery on Wednesday and faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Colwill injured his knee during Chelsea's first training session on Monday after returning from a break. Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the severity of the injury, stating that Colwill will be out for months. 'We know each other from last year and, you know in our way, how important Levi has been,' Maresca said. '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.'
Colwill started 35 of Chelsea's 38 Premier League games last season. The club have already signed cover in the form of Jorrel Hato from Ajax for around £37 million. The 19-year-old, who has Champions League experience and has captained Ajax, will provide depth at left centre-back.
Chelsea are also set to be boosted by the return of Wesley Fofana, who has been recovering from hamstring surgery. Maresca indicated Fofana could be available for the match against Crystal Palace. 'Wes is back. He is training with us. I don't think he is ready to get minutes in the next two games — but probably he can be available for the Palace game,' Maresca added.
