It's bad news for Sunderland as Granit Xhaka is subbed off early against Chelsea

Granit Xhaka was forced off injured just two minutes into Sunderland's clash with Chelsea in a massive blow for the Black Cats.

The Switzerland international, who was wanted by Chelsea in the summer, limped off with an injury and was replaced by Jules Ahoka.

It comes at just the wrong time for Regis Le Bris and his Sunderland side, who are desperate for upward momentum. They began the weekend in 20th place, having won just one of their opening 10 Premier League games.

Xhaka had played every minute of Sunderland's league campaign, but now the club face a nervous wait to see how long their skipper will be sidelined.

Despite losing Xhaka early, Sunderland started the game by far the better side. Brian Brobbey came close to putting the home side ahead on 14 minutes, but fired wide from close range.

Over the summer, Xhaka was targeted by Chelsea. Blues manager Xabi Alonso was keen for a reunion with the talismanic playmaker who inspired his unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen side to the Bundesliga crown. But the Black Cats dug in their heels and blocked the move, keeping Xhaka on Wearside.

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