Chelsea defender Alex out for a month

Chelsea defender Alex will miss the start of the Premier League season after the Brazilian suffered a thigh injury which is expected to rule him out for a month.

Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Alex will be absent from Friday’s friendly against Ajax after the centre-back sustained his injury in training.

The 28-year-old is certain to be out of the Community Shield clash with Manchester United at Wembley on August 8 and the champions’ opening league game against West Bromwich Albion.

Alex’s problem is the second injury blow Ancelotti has had to endure this week after goalkeeper Petr Cech was ruled out for a month with a calf tear.

Ancelotti will also be without Israel midfielder Yossi Benayoun against Ajax as the recent signing from Liverpool has a groin injury.

“Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed he has no fresh additions to the squad for the trip to Ajax on Friday, and will be without Alex for a month due to a thigh injury,” a statement on Chelsea’s website confirmed.