Lacroix has been ruled out until after the November international break following a hamstring tear sustained during Wednesday's Carabao Cup defeat against Liverpool, according to coach Xabi Alonso. "Max picked up an injury and we expect that he will not be ready before the international break. So he will be a few weeks out."
Analysis:Lacroix is set for several weeks on the sidelines after medical examinations confirmed a hamstring tear sustained during Wednesday's cup encounter, when he pulled up without contact and was substituted during first-half stoppage time. Coach Alonso has now confirmed that the French defender will not return before the November international break, ruling him out of Sunday's Premier League clash against Manchester United and Chelsea's remaining fixtures before the break. Lacroix has established himself as a regular starter since arriving in the summer, starting seven of eight league matches and completing the full 90 minutes in each of his last four appearances. Wesley Fofana is among the candidates to replace him in central defense, while his exact return date remains uncertain.
