Sunderland suffered another setback in a very disappointing start to the season as Granit Xhaka limped off after just three minutes against Chelsea.
The Black Cats went into Sunday’s clash bottom of the Premier League and without a win in the league since August.
Experienced midfielder Xhaka was central to Sunderland’s success last season following promotion from the Championship as Regis Le Bris’ men secured a seventh-placed finish and a place in the Europa League.
But Sunderland have struggled a lot this season as they manage both domestic and European commitments, and a spell on the sidelines for the Switzerland international would be a huge blow to their hopes of climbing the table.
Xhaka was able to go, but concerns over his fitness will be a major headache for Le Bris, although at least he has the benefit of the international break to help him recover from injury.
The 34-year-old was replaced by Jules Ahoka.
Sunderland visit Aston Villa in their next game after the international break.
