Nemanja Matic to play despite double fracture to face

Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic has been declared fit to play against Bournemouth despite suffering fractures to his nose and cheekbone.

The Serbian international will wear a mask to protect the two injuries, and boss Jose Mourinho does not feel that it will hinder his performance against the Cherries.

The 52-year-old told reporters: “Nemanja Matic has a double fracture to his face, his nose and his cheekbone, but he has been to get the mask and he can head the ball.

“The vision is good even in the mask so he is ready to play.” Matic has played 19 times for Chelsea in all competitions this season.