Bellerin Didn't Know Chelsea Scored - Wenger Explains Defender's Injury

Arsene Wenger has revealed that Hector Bellerin didn't know Chelsea had scored a goal in the aerial challenge which saw the Arsenal's right back subbed at the 13th minute of the clash.

Bellerin was struck in the face by his fellow countryman's elbow in the challenge, and hit the ground hard before receiving treatment on the pitch.

Moments later he was seen heading down the tunnel at Stamford Bridge before being replaced by Gabriel Paulista on 17 minutes.

Gunners boss Wenger felt Marcos Alonso's aerial challenge on Bellerin constituted dangerous play as the wing-back arrived at pace and caught the Spain international with his arm as he headed home.

Bellerin made way on medical advice shortly afterwards and second-half goals from Eden Hazard and Cesc Fabregas effectively ended Arsenal's title ambitions.

Wenger was obviously annoyed that the goal was allowed and he made it known while talking to the press following the defeat.

"Of course it was a foul but he allowed the goal," said the Frenchman, who later added that Bellerin "didn't see the goal," because he was so dazed by the collision.

When asked whether his right-back was was concussed, he replied: "Yes; was he completely knocked out? Well, he didn't know the result of the game at that time, he didn't see the goal"

After telling a post-match news conference his right-back was concussed, Wenger said: "Was he completely knocked out… He didn’t know the result of the game at the time. He didn't see the goal.

Bellerin was withdrawn on medical advice as the Gunners boss explained that he had little choice but to take the former Barcelona star - who was feared may have concussion - off the pitch following the challenge.

"The decision [to substitute Bellerin] was, for me, very quick, but we have to respect that. It is the head."

"Hector was injured in trying to prevent Alonso's goal - and he can't carry on"
Wenger also believes players not receiving adequate protection from officials in aerial challenges is something that needs to be addressed.

"One of the particularities of the game today is that referees are much more severe with tackles on the ground and let much more go with elbows in the face," he said.

"It is not only today but in many, many games I see that. But it is more dangerous to hit the head than the legs."