Photo by Pedro Porru/MB Media/Getty Images
Photo by Pedro Porru/MB Media/Getty Images
The last thing Xabi Alonso will have wanted after Saturday’s frustrating draw against Hull City was a mini injury crisis. However, the news coming out of Chelsea is incredibly concerning.
Saturday infuriated Alonso. The Spaniard was annoyed on the touchline as Chelsea struggled to gain any control against newly-promoted Hull City, and could easily have lost the game at Stamford Bridge.
Emi Martinez might have made a few mistakes, but the Argentine made two massive saves to deny Hull a third goal. Ahead of Brentford, the last thing Alonso needed was more injuries – but he might have them.
READ MORE: Carlton Cole hammers Morgan Rogers, claims the Chelsea star kept losing the ball
Key Chelsea trio missing from Tuesday’s training session
On Monday evening, there was some good news. It was reported that Jordan Henderson was back in full training after the injury he suffered while celebrating England’s World Cup quarter-final win over Mexico.
Henderson has been training for a month now, but he has returned to full training with his teammates and he could make his debut on Friday. However, Moises Caicedo was nowhere to be seen on Monday.
Split image with four players, which includes: Bruno Guimaraes, Lamine Camara, Alex Scott and Manu Kone
Split image with four players, which includes: Bruno Guimaraes, Lamine Camara, Alex Scott and Manu Kone
Then it was reported that Marco Palestra was back but now, according to Sky Sports reporter James Savundra, three key players were missing on Tuesday. Joao Pedro, Reece James and Caicedo were absent.
“Chelsea trio Moises Caicedo, Reece James & Joao Pedro not involved in first part of training today. Marco Palestra and Jordan Henderson training with first team as they close in on debuts,” he reported.
Chelsea will have to make changes on Friday night
It means that Chelsea could be without two key midfielders in James and Caicedo, while Henderson is only just returning to action for the first time. Valentin Barco and Romeo Lavia may start in midfield.
If Pedro is missing for the clash against Brentford, then his inclusion in Brazil’s squad for fixtures against India and Australia may come into question. Danny Welbeck is the obvious replacement for Pedro.
Changes that Alonso will not want to make going into a tricky away game against one of the Premier League’s most in-form sides. Alonso will know a defeat going into the break will be a momentum killer.