Petr Cech injury could offer Thibault Courtois opportunity to cement his place as Chelsea's Number One

Cech suffered a dislocated shoulder in the draw with Atletico Madrid and could miss the start of the new season in his recovery

Atletico goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois (AP)

Thibault Courtois could benefit from the shoulder injury that has ruled Petr Cech out for the rest of the season as he looks set to challenge the current Chelsea goalkeeper when he returns to the club at the end of the season.

Cech is in danger of missing the start of the season after suffering a dislocated shoulder in the Champions League semi-final first leg draw with Atletico Madrid, and while he was being assessed by the club’s medical staff, Courtois was impressing for Atletico where he is spending the season on loan.

The Evening Standard writes that Cech could face up to four months out as he is set to undergo an operation on the injury, and his absence could allow Courtois a chance to cement his standing as the first choice goalkeeper at Stamford Bridge – a factor that could have an impact on where his future lies next season.

As reported earlier this month, the 21-year-old is in advanced talks over a new contract and an announcement is now expected after the second leg of Chelsea’s Champions League semi-final against Atletico next Wednesday.

Courtois has been on loan at the La Liga club for three seasons and was prepared to go back to Vicente Calderon for another 12 months due to Cech’s form.

But with Cech now possibly missing the start of the next campaign, Courtois will be given the opportunity to impress throughout pre-season at Chelsea instead.

Manager Jose Mourinho is a huge admirer of the Belgium goalkeeper and wanted him to compete with Cech for a starting position next season anyway.

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At the moment Chelsea’s other goalkeepers are Mark Schwarzer and Hilario and both are out of contract in the summer.

Atletico are still hopeful Courtois will join them for another 12 months but with Cech facing the possibility of making a late start to his preparations next term, Mourinho will be more reluctant to let him go.