October 9th 2023.
Axel Disasi has been a reliable presence in the Chelsea side this season, but the 25-year-old defender has been forced to withdraw from the France squad due to injury. Disasi was called up to replace Bayern Munich's Dayot Upamecano who suffered a hamstring injury, but just hours later it was revealed that Disasi had sustained a tear in the quadriceps of the left thigh.
The French Football Federation confirmed the injury, and as a result Disasi's teammate Malo Gusto was called up to Didier Deschamps' squad to replace the injured Jules Kounde.
The injury could not have come at a worse time for Mauricio Pochettino's side, as they have been hit by injuries all season. Fellow centre-half Wesley Fofana remains a long-term absentee having suffered an ACL injury in the summer, and Trevoh Chalobah is also still recovering from a knock. Benoit Badiashile is still to play this season as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury suffered in pre-season. Ben Chilwell is facing an extended period out after suffering a hamstring injury in the Carabao Cup win over Brighton, and is expected to be ruled out until December.
Despite the injuries, Chelsea go into the international break in high spirits after securing their first back-to-back Premier League victories since March. Mauricio Pochettino said that the team was performing well and that it was only a matter of time before they start to reap the rewards of their hard work.
The Blues will hope to continue their good form when they host Arsenal in their first game back after the international break. William Saliba is expected to be fit for the game despite withdrawing from the France squad, while Reece James could also be available having served his suspension. It remains to be seen whether Chelsea can build on their recent successes and continue their climb up the table.
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