‘Time to recover’, Thankful Azpilicueta speaks after horror head injury

Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta thanked the club’s medics, his teammates, and staff at the hospital where he was treated after his head injury against Southampton.

Azpilicueta was carried off on a stretcher during Saturday’s defeat at Stamford Bridge, after taking a boot to the face from Sekou Mara while defending a corner.

There was a long stoppage in play while the 33-year-old received treatment on the pitch before he was transported to St Mary’s Hospital in west London.

Head coach Graham Potter confirmed after Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to the league’s bottom side that Azpilicueta was responsive and speaking to his wife.

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On Sunday, Azpilicueta posted an update on social media, targeting a return to action.

“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,” the defender tweeted, along with a photo of him smiling and giving a thumbs-up.

“From the Chelsea medical team to team-mates 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’s defeat left them in 10th place and lagging way behind in the top-four race, with scrutiny growing on Potter.