Xabi Alonso has clarified that Maxence Lacroix is not expected to play again until after the November international break, as he discussed the defender’s injury situation when speaking to reporters on Friday afternoon. The Frenchman suffered an injury on Wednesday night as he fell to the turf in first-half stoppage time of the Carabao Cup loss at Anfield. He was tracking Cody Gakpo when he pulled his hamstring and was replaced by Levi Colwill moments later.
Lacroix is expected to be out for a few weeks, meaning he will miss Saturday’s game against Manchester United as well as the upcoming clash against Sunderland. Reports from broadcaster Ben Jacobs indicate it could be far longer, with a grade three tear potentially keeping Lacroix out well into January.
Under Alonso, Lacroix has been an integral part of the squad. The £52 million summer addition from Crystal Palace has played in seven of the eight league matches played so far. Alonso must now turn to Wesley Fofana, Colwill and Josh Acheampong at centre-back. However, Alonso spoke highly of Fofana, saying he had been consistent and strong at Anfield and that he saw many positives, despite missing the crucial spot kick.
There were some positive updates among the other five players mentioned on Friday. Moises Caicedo is back after being substituted at Anfield, with Pep Chavarria returning to the squad. Emiliano Martinez may play against Sunderland next weekend but will likely need a face mask as he recovers from surgery on a fractured jaw. Jorrel Hato and Aaron Anselmino will, however, remain out, leaving fifth-placed Chelsea short at the back.
Xabi Alonso Could Write Half a Book on Chelsea Start
As well as injuries, Alonso was asked how the start of his tenure at the club has been going. He came in after a turbulent few months that saw his predecessor lose his job in April. Three months has already seen them lose two London derbies, exit the Carabao Cup, and watch the treatment room fill up.
Alonso said:
“Oh, many things. So many things. Maybe I could write half a book from these three months. So many more to come.”
Chelsea currently sit fifth in the league with just 13 points from eight games, having lost to Tottenham last weekend. They now face Manchester United, who are in 16th place, and Alonso will know another slip will raise some major questions. Despite being three defenders down, he still believes the side can be more consistent than they were on Saturday.