Wesley Fofana explains what’s getting to him at Chelsea right now

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Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana has opened up about the emotional strain his history of injuries is beginning to take on him.

The centre-back was visibly upset following Chelsea’s exit from the Carabao Cup, which came after a defeat to Arsenal.

Fofana had performed well in the second leg, but has since shared why he was so affected by the result at full-time.

Wesley Fofana admits he was eager to win Carabao Cup after missing Chelsea’s recent trophies​

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Chelsea picked up both the Club World Cup and Conference League titles last season under Enzo Maresca.

But injuries kept Fofana out of action for both competitions, and he wasn’t even included in the Conference League squad due to concerns over his fitness and how many matches he could realistically play.

That background helps explain why missing out on this season’s Carabao Cup hit him so hard. Arsenal’s win meant another trophy slipped through his fingers, and it clearly meant a lot to him.

Speaking to Telefoot, Fofana said: “I was very affected. I still haven’t won a trophy with Chelsea. My teammates have won trophies, but I haven’t been present. That has affected me because I want to win a trophy this year.”

Chelsea face Arsenal again this weekend, but Fofana will be absent due to suspension after picking up two yellow cards against Burnley.

Liam Rosenior will need to find another centre-back partner for Trevoh Chalobah, who is expected to feature at the Emirates.

Badiashile looks a sensible choice to replace Fofana​

Many supporters are keen to see Mamadou Sarr in the lineup after his return from Strasbourg, giving Rosenior another option. However, Benoit Badiashile could be a more reliable choice for such a high-profile fixture.

Badiashile brings the kind of physical presence and experience that suits a game like this. Against an Arsenal side known for their strength, he fits the bill better than Sarr.

He’s also solid with the ball at his feet. FotMob notes that he averages nearly 78 passes per 90 minutes with an accuracy rate just under 93%. If he’s fit, Badiashile should be starting at the Emirates.

Read more:

• John Terry debates whether Reece James and Thiago Silva fit in Chelsea’s 2004-05
• Robin van Persie reacts to Raheem Sterling debut at Feyenoord after Chelsea exit
• Luis Enrique explains why he’d rather face Chelsea in the Champions League last 16

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