Graham Potter has confirmed Kepa Arrizabalaga will miss Chelsea’s Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb with a foot injury.
Kepa enjoyed a run of starts when Potter first arrived at Stamford Bridge, with Edouard Mendy picking up an injury of his own.
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Mendy has since returned from his knee issue but Kepa was favoured by the new manager, starting all ten of Potter’s matches in charge so far.
But he won’t be starting the 11th having gone off injured during Chelsea’s 4-1 defeat at Brighton last weekend and shed light on the conversations he’s had with Mendy about his place in the team.
“Kepa won’t be available for the game, slight issue with his plantar fascia,” Potter said ahead of Wednesday night’s clash.
On Mendy, Potter added: “I’ve had some good chats with him and he’s been great. He was injured when we first arrived and Kepa played and did well.
“He’s honest enough to know he had to be patient and support Kepa. He’s kept his standards and now has his opportunity.”
Potter also revealed Mateo Kovacic sat out training with a calf injury as a precautionary measure, while Kalidou Koulibaly could be available too.
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The Chelsea boss also suggested Denis Zakaria, who joined the club on a season-long loan from Juventus in the summer, could make his debut against the Croatian outfit.
On Zakaria, Potter said: “I think I’ve mentioned him before and he’s been really good, he’s trained well supporting his teammates.
“He’s in the frame for tomorrow, he’s available for selection, so we’ll wait and see.”
Listen to full commentary of Chelsea vs Dinamo Zagreb live on talkSPORT from 7pm.
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