Moises Caicedo has trained with his Chelsea teammates ahead of their Premier League clash against Sunderland, alleviating fears around his fitness. The Ecuadorian was spotted with the squad on Wearside as they completed their warm-up.
The midfielder was a doubt ahead of the trip after suffering some discomfort following last weekend’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United. He was not seen in the part of Wednesday’s training session that was open to the media, and Xabi Alonso left his decision until after Saturday’s final training session. He made it clear that it was not a recurrence of his previous calf injury.
His inclusion in the squad indicates that he has passed his assessment. However, whether he plays remains unknown. The 25-year-old struggled with a calf injury at the start of the season, and Alonso may not want to risk him playing too many minutes. He had previously indicated that he could be fit for the game by posting a matchday graphic on his Instagram on Saturday. The starting line-ups will be confirmed an hour ahead of kick-off at 2pm GMT.
With a lack of options in midfield this autumn, the Ecuadorian’s fitness has been a concern. Jordan Henderson, who is a product of the Sunderland academy, has returned from illness and would form a partnership with Romeo Lavia if Caicedo is rested. Captain Reece James is out until January due to knee surgery.
Chelsea currently sit in fourth place on 16 points and would go just two points behind second-placed Manchester City if they win**.** Meanwhile, Sunderland sit at the bottom of the league with just five points after nine games.
Emiliano Martinez and Aaron Anselmino Back In Contention For Chelsea
Martinez could make his return to goal for Chelsea after he returned to training quicker than expected from the broken jaw he suffered against Everton in October. The Argentine has been wearing a face mask, and Alonso has left his decision until the day of the match.
Mike Penders has stepped in and has impressed whilst on the pitch. However, the young Belgian will link up with his national team after the game, along with Lavia.
Aaron Anselmino has also returned to contention after a hamstring injury suffered in pre-season. The 21-year-old has not yet played for the club this season but has trained well in the past ten days and picked up his first call-up to the senior squad for Argentina.