Chelsea dealt Moises Caicedo injury blow as Xabi Alonso issues new update before Carabao Cup tie | OneFootball

Xabi Alonso also provides an update on Cole Palmer as Chelsea turn attentions to cup matters

The pair missed Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Fulham on Monday night, with the Blues manager revealing those absences were due to suffering setbacks prior to the London derby.

In Caicedo’s absence, Romeo Lavia was drafted in to play alongside captain Reece James in central midfield, while Jorrel Hato and Malo Gusto operated as the wing-backs.

Chelsea are next in action on Thursday night, facing Luton in the Carabao Cup second round at Stamford Bridge and Alonso has provided an injury update.

“Not for tomorrow. Both,” he said in Wednesday’s pre-match press conference.

Ruled out: Marco Palestra

Alonso also added that Cole Palmer is fit to face Luton as there are no fresh injury concerns following the win over Fulham.

Enzo Fernandez will be involved for Chelsea despite links with Manchester City, while Mike Penders is in contention to replace Robert Sanchez in goal.

“Yes. We expect him to be involved,” the Spaniard said of Fernandez. “He's training really well and he will be involved.

“He's [Penders] in the squad and will have an opportunity.

However, Alonso insists he will show respect to Luton with the team selection, especially as Chelsea are not in European competition this season.

He added: "I have to say, knowing that we have time for all of the competitions. Every cup is important. We want to have the best possible team to face Luton and treat it with the respect it deserves.”