Conte reveals Pedro’s injury more serious than first thought

LONDON: Antonio Conte has revealed that Pedro’s (pic) injury was more serious than first thought.

The Spanish winger has suffered “multiple fractures” according to the Blues boss and will be the latest Chelsea player who will need to wear a protective mask.

He is expected to return to training in 10 days.

Pedro had to fly home from the club’s pre-season tour after he was clattered by Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina in the 3-0 win on Saturday.

The winger was taken to hospital as a precaution after the incident and managed to give the thumbs up on social media.

On Saturday, he wrote: “What a shock! Fortunately everything is OK. “Thanks for your messages.” Pedro was smashed into by Ospina as the pair chased a ball over the top.

The 29-year-old was clearly dazed and confused as blood poured from his nose and head.

Speaking after the game, Conte said Pedro had suffered a concussion but was fine.

However, speaking at a press conference in Singapore yesterday, Conte said it was worse than he first thought.

Pedro will not return to the Far East, with the Blues set to return to England at the beginning of August.

They only have two more official pre-season games left, against Bayern Munich and Inter Milan, but will play a number of games behind closed doors in the build-up to the season.

Chelsea have seen a number of their players wear protective masks in recent years.

Petr Cech, John Terry, Cesc Fabregas and Fernando Torres are just a few who have played in one.

Pedro has even worn one before – in May 2016 he broke his nose while suffering a fall at home and faced Liverpool wearing one. — The Sun, London