Gary Cahill Injury: Updates on Chelsea Defender's Nose and Return

Chelsea centre-back Gary Cahill is starting Sunday's Community Shield fixture against Arsenal despite suffering a suspected broken nose during the Blues' 4-2 penalty shootout win over Barcelona.

The Chelsea boss had already announced Cahill would be fit during Friday's pre-match press conference.

Mourinho told Chelsea's official website on July 29 Cahill could wear a protective mask in the game at Wembley if necessary.

The European giants drew 2-2 in normal time during Wednesday's pre-season encounter, with Cahill notching a late equaliser to set Chelsea up for the win. Barca goalkeeper Jordi Masip made contact with the Englishman when reaching for the ball, forcing the player off with three minutes to go.

Cahill's committed equaliser—which led to the injury—against the European champions was tweeted by ESPN FC:

Despite suffering intermittent spells of poor form last season, Cahill remains an important part of Chelsea's defence. Both he and John Terry are able to physically dominate opponents without being especially quick. They use this physicality to contribute at both ends of the pitch.

The most important issue for Chelsea, though, is ensuring Cahill remains fit for the Premier League season-opener at home to Swansea City on Aug. 8.