Chavarria, Palmer, Joao Pedro: Chelsea Team News To Face Liverpool As Alonso Sweats Over Availability
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Xabi Alonso will be without several key players for Chelsea's Carabao Cup fourth-round tie against Liverpool on Wednesday night.
Chelsea have already had their share of problems this season, with Moises Caicedo, Reece James and Joao Pedro missing matches due to injuries.
Fortunately for Chelsea, Caicedo has returned, but James and Joao Pedro have been sidelined after setbacks.
Chelsea are currently without Emiliano Martinez, James and Jamie Gittens. All three will miss the Anfield tie. Emmanuel Emegha has trained ahead of the cup tie, but it remains unclear if he is ready to be in contention for inclusion in the matchday squad.
After losing 2-0 to Tottenham in the Premier League, Alonso is needing to bounce back on the first attempt, but he returns to his former club, Liverpool, who are on a four-game winning streak in all competitions.
Here is the latest on Pep Chavarria, Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro as Chelsea prepare to face Liverpool in the Carabao Cup.
Pep Chavarria
The 28-year-old suffered a training setback before the 2-0 win over Everton earlier this month. Alonso confirmed the Spaniard wasn't ready to return against Spurs.
It remains unclear whether Chavarria will be ready to return against Liverpool, but Chelsea will not be rushing him back. With Jorrel Hato offering cover, Alonso is likely to go with him again, unless he opts for either Marco Palestra or Malo Gusto on the left-hand side.
Alonso will provide an update in his pre-match press conference on Tuesday to confirm Chavarria's availability either way.
Cole Palmer
The 24-year-old will miss the trip to Anfield due to suspension. Palmer was sent off in the defeat to Spurs after picking up two yellow cards in quick succession, seeing him serve a one-match ban.
Alonso will need to find a replacement for the England international, with Estevao likely to start after having to be patient for minutes this season.
Palmer will return for Chelsea's league clash against Manchester United on Saturday.
Joao Pedro
After suffering a setback on Friday, Alonso confirmed the Brazilian would undergo further tests on Sunday to determine the severity of his problem.
Chelsea will be desperately hoping their star striker is not sidelined for too long, particularly with key games coming up before the next international break in a few weeks.
It is likely Alonso will confirm the extent of his problem on Tuesday ahead of the Liverpool tie.