Chelsea have confirmed that Jesse Derry is ‘conscious, talking and undergoing precautionary checks’ after being stretchered off during the club’s 3-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest.
Derry left the Stamford Bridge pitch on a stretcher after a sickening clash of heads with Nottingham Forest defender Zach Abbott. The incident brought a halt to the 18-year-old’s Premier League debut.
There was huge concern around the ground as Derry received treatment, though Chelsea have offered an optimistic update on the winger’s health.
“Jesse Derry has been taken to hospital as a precaution following his first-half substitution during today’s #PL game against Nottingham Forest,” the statement said.
“Jesse is conscious, talking and undergoing precautionary checks. We wish him a speedy recovery and thank the medical staff for their swift response.”
Interim boss Calum McFarlane had handed the highly-rated youngster his league debut, saying before kick-off that Derry had impressed in first-team training.
“It’s a great opportunity for Jesse,” McFarlane said, speaking before kick-off against Forest.
“He’s trained with us a lot, he’s been in the squad, he’s played in other games, so we trust him. We know his talent, and I’ve worked with him previously. The boys trust him, and he’s trained really well, so we’re really excited for Jesse.”
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