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Premier League: Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois given all-clear after injury against Arsenal

Arsenal's Chilean striker Alexis Sanchez collides with Thibaut Courtois, which results with the keeper being substituted
Image: Thibaut Courtois collides with Alexis Sanchez during Chelsea's win over Arsenal

Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been given the all-clear following tests on the head injury he suffered against Arsenal.

Courtois collided with Alexis Sanchez early in Sunday's game at Stamford Bridge and was later substituted and taken to hospital - apparently with bleeding from the ear.

Chelsea have now confirmed that blood came from a cut and say Courtois should be fit to join up with the Belgium squad later this week.

A club statement read: "Chelsea can confirm Thibaut Courtois went to hospital during our Premier League game against Arsenal for precautionary tests on a head injury. Those tests came back all clear.

"Thibaut was treated for a minor cut to his ear and was released from hospital last night."

The Premier League, meanwhile, says it is satisfied Chelsea complied with new rules governing the treatment of suspected concussion.

Petr Cech replaces the injured Thibaut Courtois
Image: Petr Cech: Replaced Courtois on Sunday

Under the guidelines, which were brought in before this season, club doctors have the final say on whether players are substituted.

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One of the most senior medical officials in world football believes the rules were needed to help protect players.

"New rules on concussion are having a positive impact.” Dr Michel D’Hooghe, the chairman of FIFA’s medical committee, told Sky Sports News HQ.

"FIFA carried out a number of studies over a number of years. It is a serious issue. There was a case involving concussion in a Belgian game this weekend too. In the case of the Premier League, I think it was good to replace Courtois."

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