Chelsea 0-2 Tottenham: Xabi Alonso and Roberto De Zerbi press conferences
The Blues were forced to face Tottenham at the weekend without the aid of their star striker, and will do so again in each of their next few matches.
“He has an injury of his thigh and he is going to be out for a few weeks,” said Alonso on Tuesday. “Let’s see how many. We don’t want to predict on that, but he is not ready for the next games.”
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Alonso experimented against Tottenham with Morgan Rogers deployed up top, but that experiment, frankly, was a dismal failure. He is expected to name a strong side as he chases a much-needed win at Anfield, though.
Alonso confirmed at his pre-match press conference that Danny Welbeck and Estevao will both be in the matchday squad at Anfield, and both can expect to start against the injury-hit Reds. Rogers will slot back into one of the twin No10 positions.
Elsewhere, there will be changes as Chelsea keep one eye on the Saturday visit of Manchester United.
There will not be a change, however, in goal. Alonso has thrown his support behind Mike Penders in spite of the awful error he made against Spurs, and, with Emi Martinez still out, he will keep his place.
Moises Caicedo will keep his place in the middle of the park, but Romeo Lavia will come in for Jordan Henderson, with the veteran due a rest after playing 90 minutes in each of Chelsea’s last three matches.
It is not absolutely clear whether Pep Chavarria is fit to feature here, meaning Malo Gusto and Marco Palestra should take up space on the flanks. Wesley Fofana can come in to freshen up the back three.
Alonso also confirmed Emmanuel Emegha would be in the squad, but he is not expected to start as his wait for a Chelsea debut drags on.
Reece James remains sidelined as he recovers from knee surgery. Jamie Gittens is closing in on a return, but still on the treatment table.
Chelsea predicted XI vs Liverpool (3-4-2-1): Penders; Acheampong, Colwill, Fofana; Gusto, Lavia, Caicedo, Palestra; Rogers, Estevao; Welbeck
Doubt: Chavarria
Suspended: Palmer
Venue: Anfield
How to watch: ITV and Sky Sports