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Chelsea could reportedly be without Mateo Kovacic for a considerable period of time after the midfielder picked up an Achilles injury which has been examined by Croatia.
The 25-year-old has been a regular presence for the Blues since the start of the season but he could be out for around a month after being diagnosed with a swollen Achilles tendon grip on international duty with Croatia.
"The Chelsea midfielder has been diagnosed with inflammation of the Achilles tendon grip on his right leg, which is why he cannot compete for the upcoming games against Slovakia and Azerbaijan," a statement read on Croatia's official website.
The Blues have a recent history with long-term injuries with Callum Hudson-Odoi, Antonio Rudiger and Ruben Loftus-Cheek yet to represent the club this season.
Among those, Hudson-Odoi and Loftus-Cheek suffered Achilles tendon damages but Kovacic has avoided a similar setback and should return to action in four weeks' time.
Chelsea are presently lying 11th on the table with just five points from the opening four league games. The defence has been the prime concern with nine goals conceded and no clean sheets.
Written by Sri Aswin
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