Chelsea’s strong start against Arsenal was brought to a halt when Moises Caicedo was sent off in the first half at Stamford Bridge.
They still managed to take the lead through Trevoh Chalobah’s header, however were pegged back after Mikel Merino struck back.
Caicedo has been a near ever-present for the Blues this season in the Premier League, however Enzo Maresca is now going to have to find a solution to replace him for the coming games.
The big moment of the first half…
Was this a red card?
As per the Premier League’s rules, serious foul play results in a three-game suspension, and this will see him miss three league games in quick succession as the festive fixture list piles up.
Chelsea v Arsenal - Premier League
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images
The Chelsea games Moises Caicedo will miss after red card vs Arsenal
Caicedo will be suspended for games against Leeds, Bournemouth and Everton, with the first two being away from home.
As the rule does not apply to European football, he will be able to take part in the Champions League group stage game against Atalanta on December 9.
With the amount of fixtures he has taken part in this season for both club and country, the Ecuador international will no doubt benefit from the time off.
He is arguably Chelsea’s most important player though, and his absence will be missed, leaving Maresca a challenge when it comes to naming his side for the upcoming fixtures.
Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo clapping
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
The likely replacement for Moises Caicedo
With Romeo Lavia out injured, there is now a chance for Andrey Santos to get a regular run of games in the heart of midfield for Chelsea.
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The youngster has had to wait patiently for his opportunities at Stamford Bridge, but Santos starred in Chelsea’s recent win at Burnley.
Reece James has proven himself to be a worthy option in midfield, but against those opponents it is likely he does not play in every single game.
The Brazil international will therefore be given a chance that he simply cannot give up, given just how talented Chelsea’s midfield area is.