Chelsea defender Thiago Silva limped off during their Premier League clash with Tottenham Hotspur today.
The 38-year-old started the game and looked good but went off following a collision with Harry Kane.
Kane skipped past the defender and Reece James before Silva recovered to deny the England international.
He clattered into Silva. The Chelsea star tried to carry on but had to go off and was replaced by Wesley Fofana.
Silva was lucky to be on the pitch after delivering a sly elbow to Cristian Romero as they went for the ball earlier.
He has been one of Chelsea’s better performers in a dire campaign for the Blues. His composure on the ball is vital for their build-up play.
Silva is an ever-capable defender whose reading of the game remains impeccable despite being the oldest outfield player in the Premier League.
He has won 68% of his aerial and 77% of his ground duels while contributing to six clean sheets. He has picked up just one yellow card, showing his ability to quell dangerous attacks with minimal fuss.
Silva, who captained the team today, handed over the armband to James. The club has been preparing the right-back for a captain or vice-captain role.
James is a quiet player, but the club has pushed him to take up more on-field and off-field responsibilities.
Today was James’ first time wearing the Chelsea armband in the Premier League, but it will certainly not be his last.
Tottenham ran out 2-0 winners after beating Chelsea in north London. Oliver Skipp opened the scoring with a thumping hit before Kane secured the three points late on.
Chelsea are now only ten points away from the relegation zone despite spending almost £600 million on new signings.
It is unclear how long the club will stick with manager Graham Potter who is fighting to keep his job following the poor results.
