Robert Sanchez is absent from Chelsea’s squad to face Tottenham in Sydney after suffering a minor injury.
The injury has handed Teddy Sharman-Lowe a start in goal, although the Spaniard is at Accor Stadium watching his team-mates.
Chelsea confirmed Sharman-Lowe in the starting XI for Saturday’s Sydney Super Cup meeting with Spurs, with Ted Curd named among the substitutes.
The club’s official team announcement did not initially provide a reason for Sanchez’s absence.
However, Kieran Gill reports that the 28-year-old has picked up a minor injury rather than being left out for transfer or selection reasons.
Sanchez remains with Chelsea in Australia and is watching the match from the stands.
Robert Sanchez injury hands Sharman-Lowe Chelsea chance
Sharman-Lowe now receives an opportunity to impress Xabi Alonso against Premier League opposition.
The 22-year-old was included in Chelsea’s 28-man travelling squad and has been wearing the No.28 shirt during pre-season.
His selection comes behind a strong Chelsea side featuring Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, Jorrel Hato, Romeo Lavia, Cole Palmer and João Pedro.
ReadChelsea’s Chelsea vs Tottenham preview had Sanchez among the likely starters before news of the injury emerged.
There is currently no indication that Sanchez faces a significant spell on the sidelines. His presence at Accor Stadium should provide further encouragement that the problem is minor.
Alonso will hope to have his first-choice goalkeeper available again as Chelsea continue their pre-season tour with fixtures against Juventus, AC Milan and Johor Darul Ta’zim.
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