Xabi Alonso has been rather coy in recent pre-match press conferences when discussing the fitness and availability of his Chelsea players.
His answers on João Pedro’s injury ahead of the Brentford fixture were vague, while the information fans want a day or two before a Premier League match often remains under wraps.
Is that simply down to Alonso’s personality, or is it a clever tactic designed to keep opponents guessing until Chelsea submit their starting XI to the officials? Either way, the lack of clarity leaves fans searching for answers while giving rival managers less information to work with.
The latter argument would be more convincing if it had delivered the results Chelsea fans wanted. However, with Saturday’s clash against Bournemouth approaching, supporters will be desperate for clarity on the fitness of two key players before kick-off.
Those two players are Cole Palmer and Moisés Caicedo, who both missed international duty due to fitness concerns. Neither has been pictured in training since returning to Chelsea, leaving question marks over their availability for Saturday’s clash with Bournemouth.
Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer has frustrated some England supporters by withdrawing from international duty to give his body a much-needed rest after years of groin problems. The 24-year-old playmaker is now managing a minor muscular issue, prompting him to pull out of the squad and focus on his recovery at Chelsea.
However, there is growing confidence that Palmer will be available for Saturday’s clash with Bournemouth, with the hope that he will be back on the pitch when kick-off comes at 3pm.
FPL managers and Chelsea fans alike will be desperate for answers from Alonso, with plenty riding on whether Palmer makes the starting XI.
Moises Caicedo
Moises Caicedo's return from injury could be a major boost for Chelsea as Xabi Alonso looks to strengthen his midfield ahead of a demanding run of fixtures. The Ecuadorian's absence has been noticeable, with his energy, defensive coverage and ability to break up opposition attacks difficult to replace.
His return would also give Chelsea greater balance, allowing their more attacking players to push forward with confidence. After struggling with injuries, getting Caicedo back fit could prove crucial to turning their season around.
The details on the defensive midfielder will be key to a good result against Bournemouth with controlling that midfield vital for victory.
The rest
Marco Palestra, Reece James and João Pedro are all likely to be discussed in today’s press conference, with Chelsea fans hoping all three will be available for the Bournemouth clash.
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