Ruben Loftus-Cheek has declared that he “will overcome” his latest setback.
The England midfielder is desperate to prove he is worthy of a regular place in the Chelsea first team under Maurizio Sarri.
However, a back problem has seriously hampered him this season – and struck again on Saturday.
Loftus-Cheek was having a good game in the FA Cup tie against Nottingham Forest before having to go off during the first half.
He was clearly upset while leaving the pitch to be replaced by Eden Hazard, who had been due to be rested for the match.
It was yet another setback for Loftus-Cheek but he posted a defiant message on Twitter in response.
In the end I will overcome it all. pic.twitter.com/0cRpeZEO1v
— Ruben Loftus-Cheek (@rubey_lcheek) January 6, 2019
The player could now face a spell on the sidelines in order to get the problem resolved, Chelsea coach Carlo Cudicini suggested at a press conference after the game.
Cudicini said: “We are very sorry for him. His impact in games he has played so far has been very good. I feel he was contributing very much, so it’s a pity.
“It’s something that is obviously affecting him and something maybe we need to look at to resolve.
“It’s been going on for a while and it’s something he might have to have some time out to look at.”