Second Professional League - Generale

Chelsea have suffered a significant setback in their defensive ranks as Maxence Lacroix is set to be sidelined for the remainder of the calendar year. The Frenchman sustained a serious muscle injury during the Blues' recent cup excursion against Liverpool, leaving manager Xabi Alonso with a major selection headache.

David Moyes has thrown his full support behind Everton's decision to omit Jack Grealish from the squad following a significant breach of club discipline. The England international was a high-profile absentee from the Toffees' Carabao Cup victory over Newcastle United after reportedly failing to attend training without permission.

Arsenal have suffered a significant setback in their efforts to protect teenage sensation Max Dowman after an independent commission dismissed their appeal against his recent red card. The 16-year-old attacker was sent off during a frustrating Carabao Cup evening for the Gunners, and the club's attempt to overturn the decision has officially fallen flat.

Everton manager David Moyes omitted Manchester City loanee Jack Grealish from his matchday squad for a disciplinary infraction before watching his side claim a 3-1 victory over Newcastle United on Thursday night. Despite the England winger's absence at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, the Merseysiders comfortably advanced into the last eight of the Carabao Cup.