Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Xabi Alonso faces a dilemma when it comes to team selection against Luton Town, after a welcome addition in training.
Chelsea finally got off the mark under Xabi Alonso, but it was far from a comfortable afternoon. The front line showed flashes of the fluid football Alonso wants to build, but the back four looked completely at odds with each other for long stretches, giving up far too much space far too easily.
Behind them, Robert Sanchez hardly helped calm any nerves. He looked indecisive on crosses, made a couple of mistakes, and generally gave off an air of panic.
With Luton Town up next, it gives Alonso the perfect chance to try a couple of things and ring the changes, with a relatively big squad still at Cobham.
Aaron Anselmino back on grass after injury
Aaron Anselmino showed bright flashes during Chelsea’s pre-season tour, demonstrating the composure and defensive instinct that earned him a move to Stamford Bridge.
However, Anselmino’s momentum was cruelly cut short when he suffered a hamstring injury against Johor Darul Ta’zim, leaving the pitch in tears after another frustrating setback.
His return could come soon, though, after the defender was pictured back in training at Cobham.
Aaron Anselmino’s situation at Chelsea
Chelsea will consider loan offers for the defender, but they are also happy to keep him around.
So it’ll be down to Anselmino to impress in whatever chance he gets given. Especially given how many centre-backs Chelsea have on their books.
However, there will always be that lingering doubt over whether he can stay fit, as he’s racked up seven distinct injuries since breaking through at Boca Juniors and making his move to Chelsea. The vast majority of these lay-offs have been muscle-related, primarily recurring hamstring tears and strains.