Xabi Alonso ahead of Manchester United. Photo via Chelsea FC official X. Site branding added.
Chelsea team news for Manchester United includes a boost for Moises Caicedo, but Maxence Lacroix and Jorrel Hato will miss Saturday’s Premier League match at Stamford Bridge.
Xabi Alonso confirmed the latest availability at Friday’s press conference after Chelsea’s midweek Carabao Cup exit at Liverpool. The United match kicks off at 12.30pm GMT on Saturday 31 October.
Chelsea team news: Caicedo fit, Lacroix out
In Friday’s official team-news update, Alonso said Moises Caicedo is available despite coming off against Liverpool. “No issue,” he said. “He is ok for tomorrow.”
Maxence Lacroix is out with a hamstring issue after coming off during Wednesday’s game at Anfield. Alonso does not expect him back before the international break: “So he will be a few weeks out.”
BBC Sport subsequently reported that multiple sources believe Lacroix could be out until January, potentially missing up to 10 matches. That is the BBC’s reported assessment, rather than a return date confirmed by Chelsea. Alonso’s public update was that the defender would be out for a few weeks and was not expected back before the international break.
Jorrel Hato will also be absent against United. Pep Chavarria is in contention after missing three matches, while Aaron Anselmino is not available yet. Alonso said Anselmino will need a few weeks to be fully fit and stressed the need for caution after several injuries.
Emiliano Martinez’s return remains conditional following jaw surgery. Asked whether he could be available before the international break, Alonso said there is a chance, but that Chelsea must wait until next week to assess how things go.
Palmer can return after suspension
Cole Palmer is available after missing the Liverpool cup tie through suspension. Chelsea’s Thursday training update showed him working outside at Cobham alongside Valentin Barco and Marco Palestra, who had appeared from the bench at Anfield.
Players who played most of Wednesday’s cup match instead focused on gym recovery. Alonso had urged the squad to move on quickly after a 1-1 draw ended in defeat on penalties.
The Chelsea team news gives Alonso options in midfield and attack, while he must replace Lacroix in defence.
Sources: Chelsea’s 30 October team-news update, Chelsea’s 29 October training update and Alonso’s reaction after Liverpool; BBC Sport’s 30 October Lacroix report.
Earlier coverage: Chelsea’s league defeat by Tottenham.
