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.
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. body check tags ::
