Zouma out for SIX MONTHS with knee injury

The French global, who was stretchered off the field, according to the club will be undergoing surgery within the next 48 hours.

The 21-year old injured his anterior cruciate ligament in Sunday’s 1-1 Barclays Premier League draw with Manchester United, and he is expected to be on the sidelines for at least six months.

Chelsea’s Kurt Zouma shouts out after getting injured during the English Premier League soccer match between Chelsea and Manchester United at Stamford Bridge stadium in London, Sunday, Feb. 7, 2016.

The France global landed awkwardly in the fixture and was immediately brought off and replaced by Gary Cahill.

Zouma posted on Twitter after news of his injury was confirmed, pledging to “come back stronger”. “Thank you everyone for all the messages”.

Cahill, the England vice-captain, will welcome the opportunity to return to the starting line-up, even if the circumstances are unfortunate for a team-mate.

Next up for Chelsea is a Premier League clash against Newcastle on Saturday.

Spain full-back Azpilicueta told the Evening Standard: “It’s a situation between him and the club”.

Zouma has been on the fringes of his national team ahead of Euro 2016, earning his first cap last March and playing twice, but has made 32 appearances for Chelsea.

“We need everybody, we have big games coming up and all of us have to be ready”.