Jesse Derry was handed a surprise start by Calum McFarlane against Nottingham Forest, but the Chelsea youngster’s debut was cut short after a serious collision
Chelsea prospect Jesse Derry required oxygen and was taken to hospital following a concerning clash of heads during his full Premier League debut against Nottingham Forest on Monday.
The young forward was included from the start by caretaker boss Calum McFarlane, with Alejandro Garnacho and Pedro Neto both unavailable through injury.
Derry was active down the left-hand side for Chelsea, showing glimpses of his promise early on. On the stroke of half-time, Derry rose to challenge for the ball ahead of Nottingham Forest’s Zach Abbott but was caught heavily in the process.
A penalty was rightfully awarded to the Blues, but the injury to Derry brought the stadium to near silence. Play was halted for over ten minutes while medical staff treated him on the pitch, administering oxygen before he was eventually stretchered off and both sets of supporters applauded as he left the field.
At that stage, Chelsea were already 2-0 down after early goals from Taiwo Awoniyi and Igor Jesus. They had a chance to respond just before half-time when Cole Palmer stepped up from the spot, but his effort was comfortably saved by Matz Sels.
Forest extended their lead after the break, with Awoniyi grabbing his second of the game, before João Pedro netted a late consolation for the hosts.
The defeat further dents Chelsea’s push for European qualification. Having been in the conversation for a Champions League place not long ago, they now sit ninth with three matches remaining – 10 points off the top five and three adrift of the European spots.
Injury update on Jesse Derry
“Jesse Derry has been taken to hospital as a precaution following his first-half substitution during today’s #PL game against Nottingham Forest,” Chelsea confirmed in a statement.
“Jesse is conscious, talking and undergoing precautionary checks. We wish him a speedy recovery and thank the medical staff for their swift response.”
And on Tuesday, the player himself made a post on social media about the incident, thanking the Chelsea medical team as well as expressing his pride over making his first start.
“A dream come true to start at Stamford Bridge for my Premier League debut,” he wrote on Instagram.
“I’d like to thank all the Chelsea medical staff, everyone at St Mary’s Hospital, my teammates, and all the fans for their great support.
“I can’t wait to be back playing in front of everyone very soon.”