Chelsea dealt critical injury blow in build up to Europa League final with Arsenal
Soccer Football - Europa League - Chelsea Press Conference - Cobham Training Centre, Cobham, Britain - May 8, 2019 Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri during the press conference Action Images via Reuters/John Sibley
Chelsea have suffered a huge injury blow ahead of their Europa League final clash with Arsenal.
The Blues dispatched New England Revolution 3-0 in a friendly match at the Gillette Stadium, but are now sweating over the fitness of Ruben Loftus-Cheek after he suffered an injury in the second-half.
The England midfielder hobbled off with a suspected ankle problem during the 3-0 friendly win, making him a huge doubt for the Europa League final later this month.
Loftus-Cheek was unable to carry on after appearing to catch his foot in the patchy turf at the Gillette Stadium and twisted at an awkward angle.
Loftus-Cheek limps off against New England Revolution
The 23 year-old was later seen on crutches and wearing a protective boot, raising fears he will be out of action for the Blues’ European showdown against Arsenal .
Arsenal must overcome the Blues in Baku if they are to qualify for next season’s Champions League group stage.
Otherwise, they face three consecutive terms without European top flight football.