Lacroix limped off at Anfield on Wednesday night, with Alonso confirming after the game that the France international had sustained a hamstring injury.

At his pre-match media conference this afternoon, Alonso added that we are unlikely to see Lacroix in a Chelsea shirt again until after next month’s international break.

Having started all but one Premier League fixture this term and our three Carabao Cup ties in the heart of defence, Lacroix’s unavailability leaves a hole that needs filling.

Wesley Fofana is one defender Alonso can turn to, with Lacroix’s compatriot having played the full 90 minutes at Anfield. Although his penalty miss ultimately proved pivotal in the shootout, Alonso says Fofana performed well and is one of several defensive options that could be used against United.

‘With Max's injury, we have Wes, we have Levi [Colwill], Josh [Acheampong] could play as well as a centre-back, Jorrel [Hato] when he’s back with the team [after injury],’ explained Alonso.

‘For sure Wes has played, and even if he missed the penalty, I think that he had a good game. He was consistent, he was strong, and I saw many positives from his performance.

‘We know the level that he has had, and he's going to be important.’

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