Chelsea suffer injury setback as Badiashile ruled out ahead of Carabao Cup final against Liverpool

In a significant development that has rocked Chelsea's camp, the Blues are facing a considerable challenge as they head into the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool later this month.

The Stamford Bridge outfit, already struggling to find form in the Premier League, has confirmed that key defender Benoit Badiashile will miss the crucial clash at Wembley due to a groin injury sustained in their recent FA Cup victory over Aston Villa.

Under the stewardship of Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea's season has been far from ideal. Currently languishing at 11th in the Premier League table, 16 points adrift of the coveted top-four spots, the London club has found solace in their cup runs.

With a place in the FA Cup fifth round secured, and the Carabao Cup final on the horizon, Chelsea had a glimmer of hope to salvage their season with silverware. However, the loss of Badiashile comes as a severe blow to their ambitions.

According to the London Evening Standard, Badiashile will miss the final due to a groin injury.

The 22-year-old French international will be sidelined for at least a month.

It was initially hoped to be minor. Further assessments has unveiled the severity of the injury, ruling him out of not only the Carabao Cup final but also the upcoming Premier League fixture against Manchester City, along with the FA Cup tie against Leeds United.

The absence of Badiashile, who has made six starts in his eight Premier League appearances this season, leaves Pochettino with a gaping hole in his defence. The former Monaco defender's injury means veteran Thiago Silva is likely to step in as Chelsea look to navigate through this challenging period.

For Liverpool fans, this news should tilt the scales in our favour as the Reds prepare to face a weakened Chelsea defence. However, the Reds will be well aware that cup finals are unpredictable and that a team's resolve is often strongest when their backs are against the wall.

After all, the Blues have made every final they've played against Liverpool during the Klopp era quite a dull affair.