Chelsea Boss Sidelines Midfielder & Provides Injury Update

Frank Lampard sidelined N’Golo Kante during their game at Stamford Bridge against Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday. According to the Blues manager, the move to exclude the France international was a precautionary measure.

Lampard revealed that Kante should be fit to play against Lille on Wednesday. The manager said that midfielder was sidelined in order to recuperate ahead of their UEFA Champion League game against the French side. Lampard said that he does not want to risk Kante and further aggravate his injury. He, however, assured Chelsea fans that the midfielder will be ready next week. The midfielder had picked up an ankle injury last August.

Lampard stated that Kante’s injury was carried over from last year and playing him is quite risky.

“Yes, it is an awareness,” said Lampard. “I did not want to take the risk. “I spoke to N’Golo about it. He is so important for us – we know that – but he has had a difficult pre-season.

The Frenchman missed four games this season due to his injury. He will be a big help for the Blues when they face Lille on Wednesday. Chelsea lost to Valencia in their opening UCL match, and Wednesday game is seen as a must-win situation for them. Kante will also be a shoo-in to play when they travel to St. Mary’s when they play Southampton next Sunday.

Kante missed playing for a month after picking a hamstring injury in May. He then had a knee issue in the pre-season.

The Blues did not miss Kante when they faced Brighton at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea managed to seal the three points courtesy of Jorginho who managed to convert a penalty kick, 50 minutes into the game. Willian also added another goal in the 76^th minute to finally give Lampard his first victory as head coach at home.