Eden Hazard has reportedly been ruled out of Chelsea's Premier League fixture at Sunderland.
The Belgian winger suffered a knock to his ankle during the first half of his side's 1-0 win over West Bromwich Albion on Sunday afternoon and although he played on, he was substituted late in the game.
According to The Guardian, Antonio Conte has decided to leave Hazard out of his squad for the trip to the Stadium of Light as he looks to manage his group of players during the Christmas period.
If Hazard does not feature in the North-East, it will be the first league encounter he has missed all season and it comes at a time when Chelsea are looking to extend their lead at the top of the table.
After Arsenal's 2-1 setback at Everton, the West London outfit will move six points clear with a win on Wednesday evening.
