Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso has confirmed goalkeeper Robert Sanchez has suffered a minor injury, forcing him to miss the Blues' pre-season defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.
The Spaniard watched from the sidelines as Chelsea lost 2-1 in Sydney, with youngster Teddy Sharman-Lowe starting between the posts.
Alonso confirms Sanchez setback
Speaking after the match, Alonso revealed the injury is not considered serious but confirmed Sanchez will not travel with the squad immediately.
"Mike is joining us in Hong Kong. Robert has a minor injury."
The setback comes at an unfortunate time for Sanchez, who is looking to establish himself as Chelsea's first-choice goalkeeper under the club's new manager.
Mike Penders called up
With Sanchez unavailable, highly-rated goalkeeper Mike Penders will join Chelsea's squad for the next stage of their pre-season tour in Hong Kong.
Penders spent last season on loan at Strasbourg and is expected to provide additional cover for the upcoming friendlies against Juventus, AC Milan and Johor Darul Ta'zim.
Against Tottenham, Sharman-Lowe started in goal, while Ted Curd was named among the substitutes.
Mudryk boost for Chelsea
Chelsea will also be strengthened by the return of Mykhailo Mudryk, who is set to rejoin the squad after his suspension was lifted.
Alonso recently described the Ukrainian's return as a "massive" boost for both the player and the club after nearly two years away from competitive football.
His availability provides another positive for Chelsea as preparations continue ahead of the new Premier League season.
Key Points
- Robert Sanchez missed Chelsea's defeat to Tottenham with a minor injury.
- Xabi Alonso has confirmed Mike Penders will join the squad in Hong Kong.
- Teddy Sharman-Lowe started in goal against Spurs.
- Chelsea face Juventus, AC Milan and Johor Darul Ta'zim in their remaining pre-season fixtures.
- Mykhailo Mudryk is set to return after his suspension was lifted.
What's Next?
Chelsea will assess Sanchez's recovery over the coming days while Penders joins the squad for the remainder of the Asia tour. Alonso will hope to have his first-choice goalkeeper available again before the start of the Premier League season.
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