Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez was substituted after just 30 minutes into the Carabao Cup game against Newcastle United on Wednesday night, sparking concerns of a potential injury crisis for the Blues during the festive period.
Assigned to the midfield alongside Moises Caicedo for the quarter-final clash, the Argentine player was replaced by Armando Broja within the first half-hour, causing further worries for manager Mauricio Pochettino.
Reports from Sky Sports suggest that Fernandez was withdrawn due to illness. He was seen leaving the field accompanied by assistant manager Jesus Perez and other staff members.
At halftime, the 22-year-old was observed clutching his thigh while discussing with Pochettino, hinting at a possible muscle injury. However, the extent of the injury and the duration of his absence from the team remain uncertain.