Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger ordered off training ground after bust-up with Kepa Arrizabalaga - reports

Heated exchange came day after shock thrashing by West Brom

Antonio Rudiger takes part in a training session with Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel watches on. Getty

Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger was sent in early from training on Sunday following a heated exchange with teammate Kepa Arrizabalaga, according to reports.

Tempers flared at Chelsea's Cobham training ground after Saturday's shock home defeat to West Bromwich Albion, in which both players were among the substitutes, according to The Telegraph.

Thomas Tuchel had warned his players not to lose their heads in the wake of the 5-2 thrashing.

Spanish goalkeeper Kepa reacted to Rudiger's late challenge during a small-sided training game and the two players shoved each other as tempers flared.

Chelsea players pulled their teammates apart and Tuchel reacted immediately, deciding that German defender Rudiger was not calming down quickly enough to take part in the final five minutes of training, so sent him in early to cool down with goalkeeper Kepa completing the session.

It is understood Rudiger has since apologised to Kepa and Tuchel considers the matter closed.

It has been reported earlier this season that Rudiger had clashed on more than one occasion with Cesar Azpilicueta during training.

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Rudiger lost his place in the starting line-up during the closing stages of Frank Lampard's tenure as Chelsea boss, but has regained his place and played a key role under Tuchel.

The incident followed a heated argument between Reece James and fellow defender Azpilicueta in the Stamford Bridge dressing room after the defeat to West Brom.

The Blues will bid to bounce back from their first defeat in 15 games under Tuchel on Wednesday when they play Porto in the away leg of their Champions League quarter-final.