Top News

£115 million midfielder limped off after only 14 minutes on his return.

Xabi Alonso provided an update on Moises Caicedo after the Chelsea midfielder went off injured during the 4-3 victory over Brighton and Hove Albion.

The Ecuador international had been making his comeback after picking up a knock in training, which forced him to miss the opening league game at Fulham as well as the midweek Carabao Cup win over Luton.

He made his first appearance of the season against his former club on Sunday, but his outing lasted only 14 minutes after he came on for Pedro Neto in the second half at Stamford Bridge.

Alonso said he was unsure about the seriousness of the 24-year-old’s latest problem, with the midfielder clearly distressed as he left the pitch and was replaced by Valentin Barco, another former Brighton player.

“Hopefully it wasn’t new, and hopefully it wasn’t more than last time,” Alonso said about Caicedo.

“He was cautious to stop and say that he wasn’t feeling the best. We will assess it during the week.”

Chelsea rather unusually started with natural full-back Malo Gusto in central midfield alongside Romeo Lavia, while captain Reece James was introduced from the bench and played in the middle with Caicedo when Brighton began to take control in the second half.

Enzo Fernandez was the major absentee from the matchday squad, having again been left out amid speculation over a possible exit before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.

The Argentina international was also omitted against Luton and was not present in west London on Sunday.

“We want the best for the team,” Alonso explained.

“That’s why we took the decision today for Luton and today. We need to be aware as to what’s going to develop before Tuesday. We will prepare for all the scenarios, but I assure you that from Wednesday, we will have a good enough squad to compete in the Premier League.”

Neto, who scored Chelsea’s second goal of the afternoon, has likewise been linked with a move away, with Tottenham and Manchester City among the clubs previously reported to be interested in the Portugal international.

However, after a strong performance in the unfamiliar role of wing-back, it now looks as though he will remain at Chelsea and have an important role in Alonso’s plans.

“I don’t guarantee anything to anyone,” the Chelsea manager said when asked about Neto’s future.

“I was very happy with Pedro. He did really well; he’s going to be very important for the whole season, because he has very special qualities”