Sunderland suffer huge blow as Xhaka limps off against Chelsea

It's another worry for Regis Le Bris.

Sunderland suffer huge blow as Xhaka limps off against Chelsea

Sunderland suffered another setback in a hugely disappointing start to the season as Granit Xhaka limped off after just three minutes against Chelsea.

The Black Cats went into Sunday’s clash bottom of the Premier League and without a win in the league since August.

Experienced midfielder Xhaka was instrumental to Sunderland’s success last season following promotion from the Championship as Regis Le Bris’ men secured a seventh-placed finish and a place in the Europa League.

But Sunderland have struggled mightily this season as they manage both domestic and European commitments, and a spell on the sidelines for the Switzerland international would be a massive blow to their hopes of climbing the table.

Xhaka was able to walk off, but the concern over his fitness will present a significant headache for Le Bris, though he does at least have the benefit of the international break to aid his recovery from injury.

The 34-year-old was replaced by Jules Ahoka.

Sunderland visit Aston Villa in their next game after the international break.