[Oliver Walton
Oliver Walton](https://www.footballinsider247.com/author/oliver-walton)
Correspondent AUTHORITY Football journalist with experience at Reach PLC and PA Media; University of Central Lancashire graduate. FOCUS Fan-engagement content and match analysis across the Premier League and Championship. THE INSIGHT Oliver utilises a network of club and industry contacts to deliver verified reporting and fan-first content. He provides the human stories behind the results to ensure fans get the full picture as it happens.
The unstoppable trifecta was broken up over the weekend as Pedro missed out with a thigh problem in their 2-0 loss to Tottenham.
He is now confirmed to be sidelined for a "few weeks", according to Alonso, in a big blow to Chelsea as they prepare to face Chelsea in the Carabao Cup this week.
The Blues boss has Danny Welbeck as an option to start, but should give summer signing Emegha the chance to impress in Pedro's absence.
Emegha, 23, is back fit after suffering from a hamstring problem and has the potential to be a key player for Chelsea this season and beyond.
Emmanuel Emegha deserves Chelsea chance after injury layoff
Emegha officially joined the Blues in the summer after agreeing to a £21million pre-contract from sister club Strasbourg last September.
He only featured in 10 league games last term due to injury and personal issues, but ranked in the 100th percentile (0.8) for expected goals per 90 and 89th percentile (0.41) for big chances created per 90 among Ligue 1 strikers.
Chelsea have not just signed him for the future, with Alonso clearly impressed with what he saw over the summer as he made the cut to be included in the Blues' squad for this campaign.
Emegha is yet to feature this season after suffering a hamstring injury in August, but the Chelsea manager has this week confirmed that he will be in the squad to face Liverpool on Wednesday.
While Welbeck is more experienced, Alonso could spring a surprise on Andoni Iraola by starting Emegha in their cup clash.
Chelsea fans are keen to see him in action and he is set for a bright future, while their attack needs pace and dynamism, two of his best attributes, to work to its best.
What has Alonso said about Emegha?
Alonso clearly rates Emegha highly, which points to the Dutchman potentially making his first appearance for the club from the off at Anfield.
Speaking to the media about the striker, Alonso said: "When he is fit, he is very special. He is 1.95 metres, is quick, he attacks space, and he is a threat. He needs to be fully fit, and at this moment he’s had little things and unfortunately has not been available.
"But we are looking forward to him feeling good and helping the team, and it's going to be difficult for defenders when he is in good shape."