Mykhailo Mudryk and Romeo Lavia break silence after Chelsea injury worry vs Crystal Palace

Romeo Lavia has sent a message to Chelsea fans after he made a long awaited debut for the club in the second half of their clash against Crystal Palace. The teenager arrived from Southampton over the summer and after struggling with an injury he finally made an appearance in front of his new supporters.

The former Manchester City academy starlet was brought on after half time with Chelsea struggling to make much headway having gone into the break level despite being well in control of the game, taking an early lead. Lavia replaced Ian Maatsen just before the hour mark as Mauricio Pochettino changed shape to try and wrestle the game back into his favour.

Lavia certainly played his part in helping Chelsea keep hold of the ball for much of the second period, completing 22 passes and partnering well with Moises Caicedo and Conor Gallagher in midfield. It wasn't until the final minute of normal time that Chelsea got their reward, though, with Noni Madueke winning and subsequently scoring a penalty late on.

For Lavia — and Christopher Nkunku who made his first start for the club — it was the perfect ending and the first of what most hope will be many appearances. However, it didn't all go to plan.Speaking after the game Pochettino revealed that Lavia had taken a knock and may well be back in the treatment room prematurely.

«A little bit worried about Lavia, he finished with some issues, hope that it’s not big issue,» the manager said. It is reportedly a thigh injury he has picked up and more will be learnt in the coming days.

For Pochettino it is far from ideal as he has just started to welcome back some key players. Lavia has taken to social media to send a thankful message to Chelsea supporters since the game, though it doesn't