Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta has been discharged from hospital after suffering a head injury against Southampton on Saturday.
The 33-year-old Blues legend was named in Graham Potter's starting lineup for the first time in over a month after Reece James was handed a rest.
However, Azpilicueta's return to action a Stamford Bridge ended in painful circumstances as he was kicked in the face by Sekou Mara, who attempted an overhead kick inside the penalty area towards the end of the second half.
Azpilicueta was conscious but received oxygen for several minutes on the pitch before being taken off on a stretcher.
The Spain international was immediately taken to hospital and Chelsea went on to lose 1-0 at home against Premier League basement club Southampton courtesy of a James Ward-Prowse free kick.
Azpilicueta is understood to have not broken any bones, and the defender was able to provide a positive update from hospital the following day.
A post on Instagram read: "Hi everyone! Thank you all for your love and messages of support! My family and I would like to thank everyone who has been looking after me since yesterday's incident...
"From the Chelsea medical team, to teammates and opponents, to St Mary's and Cleveland Hospital and all staff members and doctors: a massive thank you from the bottom of my heart.
"Now, time to recover and I will see you soon on the pitch!"
Chelsea have since confirmed on Tuesday that Azpilicueta has been discharged from hospital and will follow concussion protocols before returning to action.
Captain Azpi! 💙 pic.twitter.com/9HmQcpyqtA
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 21, 2023
A statement on the club's official website read: "Following a concussion injury sustained during Saturday's game against Southampton, Cesar Azpilicueta has been discharged from hospital and is recovering well at Cobham.
"The club's medical team are closely monitoring Cesar's condition, adhering to the important concussion protocols in place to ensure his safety.
"Cesar observed training today, before he starts working towards returning to the pitch."
Azpilicueta has been a loyal servant to Chelsea since arriving at the club from Marseille back in 2012, and has made a total of 502 appearances across all competitions, winning nine trophies.
The defender is expected to miss Sunday's London derby away against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League, while it remains to be seen whether he will be fit to return for a home clash against Leeds United on March 4.
Oliver Thomas
