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Lacroix limps off at Anfield
The Blues crashed out of the Carabao Cup following a tense penalty shootout, with normal time ending 1-1 after Morgan Rogers and Cody Gakpo traded spot-kicks. However, the loss of their commanding centre-back will be of far greater concern to the Chelsea coaching staff.
Lacroix pulled up while chasing Gakpo through midfield shortly after Liverpool's equaliser. He went down off the ball moments later and required treatment on the pitch before being replaced by Levi Colwill. The Frenchman walked slowly to the dressing room in clear distress, clutching the back of his left thigh while consulting with the club's medical trainers.
Alonso reacts to fresh fitness setback
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso admitted the club will have to wait before discovering the full extent of the defender's muscle issue. Speaking after the final whistle, the Spaniard confirmed the medical team's initial suspicions.
"Too early to tell. Probably he felt something on the hamstrings," Alonso said. "And we need a couple of days to check what's going to be the injury.”
Mounting problems at Stamford Bridge
Losing Lacroix represents a massive blow to Chelsea's defensive stability. The summer signing from Crystal Palace has been an ever-present figure this season, starting all eight Premier League fixtures and featuring in both Carabao Cup matches.
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His absence exacerbates an already severe selection crisis for Alonso. The west London outfit travelled north without Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, and Reece James due to injury, while talisman Cole Palmer missed the tie through suspension.
Waiting game for the Blues
Chelsea's medical staff will assess Lacroix over the coming days to determine a precise recovery timeline. A prolonged absence would stretch the squad to its limits, leaving Alonso heavily reliant on Colwill and his remaining defensive options during a busy autumn schedule.
The manager must now regroup his depleted squad as they look to shake off their cup elimination and maintain momentum in the Premier League.