Chelsea boss Graham Potter says Cesar Azpilicueta was immediately taken to hospital after a head injury suffered in defeat to Southampton.

The Spanish veteran was kicked in the head by Sekou Mara as the Southampton forward attempted an overhead kick.

The Chelsea captain was replaced after 84 minutes having went down more than 10 minutes before. Azpilicueta underwent lengthy treatment on the pitch as supporters sang his name, and when he was eventually stretchered off the pitch he was able to raise his hands as a gesture to the Stamford Bridge crowd.

Potter said: "He's in hospital. So he's in the best place. He is conscious and I think he was speaking to his wife so that's good. Obviously really concerned, especially when it first happened. Hopefully, he is in the best place and we're monitoring.

"I think he was [unconscious]. So we need to take all the precautions we need to take now to make sure he's okay. Worrying. A horrible incident."

Interim-Southampton boss Ruben Selles sent his best wishes to the defender.

Sellés said: "I wish a speedy recovery to Azpi. I spoke to Willy Caballero to keep me updated with his state."