Xabi Alonso press conference after Chelsea 2-2 Hull
Chelsea Football Newsletter
Chelsea striker Joao Pedro has withdrawn from Brazil’s squad for the coming international break through injury, it has been confirmed.
Pedro played 90 minutes and scored a second-half equaliser as the Blues drew 2-2 with Hull last week, but missed training thereafter.
He did not appear injured post-match and Xabi Alonso did not mention any problems in his brief post-match press conference, but it seems Pedro has picked up an issue.
After being confusingly snubbed from Brazil’s World Cup squad, he was called up by Carlo Ancelotti for upcoming friendlies against Australia and India, but he will play no part.
A statement from the Brazilian football federation revealed Fluminense’s Martinelli will be called up in his place, adding: “The player will replace Chelsea striker Joao Pedro, who is injured.”
Sidelined: Joao Pedro
The nature or severity of his injury remain unclear, and Alonso may offer an update as he previews Chelsea’s trip to face Brentford at a press conference on Thursday afternoon.
Pedro has made a fine start to the new season, scoring three goals and assisting a further three in four Premier League appearances. He was also voted the Premier League player of the month for September.
Speaking of Pedro last week, Alonso said the ex-Brighton striker reminded him of Real Madrid legend Karim Benzema.
“He's been top, not just football-wise but personality-wise, his maturity,” the Chelsea manager said.
“He has a very strong goal this year: to have a great season, to score many goals, to be a [Player of the Month] nominee not just this month, but for more months.
“I'm really not surprised, but am really happy with the kind of player that we have with Joao.
“As a profile of striker, he seems to be able to do everything. He reminds me of (Karim) Benzema because he's good in the box, he's good out of the box, he's good coming to the left side, good with the head.
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“He's very complete. He's intelligent.
“So yes, he’s still young, and he still has things to develop, but he has many absolutely outstanding qualities.”