Photo by Chris Lee - Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Chris Lee - Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Some Chelsea fans may have forgotten that one of the starters against Real Sociedad is actually suspended from last season for the Fulham clash.
Chelsea finished up their pre-season tune-up on a high, taking down Real Sociedad 3-1 at Stamford Bridge. Morgan Rogers opened his account with his first goal in a Blues shirt, while Joao Pedro bagged a quick second-half brace to seal the win.
It gave Xabi Alonso a winning home debut on the touchline and gave fans plenty to be optimistic about heading into the new campaign.
But the fun and games are over now, as all eyes turn to Craven Cottage for the Premier League opener against Fulham, where it really matters.
Enzo Fernandez reaction on Chelsea return
Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP via Getty Images
Wesley Fofana suspended for Premier League opener vs Fulham
Wesley Fofana will miss Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Fulham due to an ongoing suspension.
The French defender picked up an accumulation ban at the back end of last season, capped off by a late second yellow card against Sunderland on the final day.
Under FA regulations, disciplinary suspensions for red cards and yellow card thresholds carry over directly into the following domestic season across all English competitions.
Pre-season friendlies do not count toward clearing competitive bans, leaving Fofana sidelined for the Fulham clash despite starting in Chelsea’s recent tune-up against Real Sociedad.
Wesley Fofana gives Xabi Alonso a headache
Despite being suspended for the Premier League opener, Wesley Fofana played the full 90 minutes against Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge.
He looked quite shaky on the ball at times, playing as one of three central defenders. He had a 94% passing accuracy percentage, 60 touches, one tackle, two blocks, two clearances and eight recoveries, plus winning both of his duels.
However, Alonso is now forced to either switch to a four-back for Fulham or find a replacement. The likes of Jorrel Hato and Josh Acheampong have the ability to play at centre-back, so it’ll be interesting to see.