Wesley Fofana missed all of last season, and significant parts of the prior two seasons as well, with various major injuries, so while he's been fit to return as one of our first-choice center backs this season, his workload has been carefully managed so far.

But that careful management was under threat by his call-up to the France squad for the international break - well deserved and nice to see, but concerning in terms of the wear and tear it would introduce.

With that in mind, it's heartening to see that Fofana has chosen very wisely to forgo participation in the national team this fortnight, and, after consultation with France head coach Didier Deschamps, will instead stay behind at Cobham to focus on his own fitness.

The French national team officially confirmed the decision yesterday, calling up Loic Bade from Seville instead.

With injuries already factoring into the new season - Reece James, Romeo Lavia, and now (probably) Malo Gusto all dealing with hamstring problems - hopefully Fofana can avoid further problems. We could certainly use a good season from the 23-year-old, who remains our most expensive defender ever.

Apres un echange avec Didier Deschamps, Wesley Fofana va finalement rester a la disposition de Chelsea et mettre a profit la treve internationale pour suivre un protocole de soins, lie aux blessures qui l'avaient longuement eloigne des terrains la saison passee.

Loic Bade (FC... pic.twitter.com/Vc1BTh6yhY

- Equipe de France (@equipedefrance) September 1, 2024

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