Maurizio Sarri is unsure when Callum Hudson-Odoi will return to action but has backed the Chelsea youngster to return “better than before” from his Achilles tendon rupture.
The injury is a big blow for Hudson-Odoi, who recently broke into the England team and was establishing himself in the Chelsea side having had to wait for his chance in the Premier League.
Blues head coach Sarri was asked at a press conference on Friday how long he expected Hudson-Odoi to be out for.
The Italian said: “It depends of course. For sure three months, then we have to see the condition because you can able to play but we need a player at the top.
“So it depends. The period is three months, no less.”
Hudson-Odoi, who limped off during the first half of Chelsea’s 2-2 draw at home to Burnley on Monday night, has had a successful operation.
Sarri said: “The operation for Callum went in the right way. I think he will be back here (at the training ground) in one or two days.
“Of course he needs time now, but Callum is a very strong man physically and mentally so I am sure he will be able to return better than before.”