Chelsea: Xabi Alonso reveals Joao Pedro and Moises Caicedo injury latest in new update | OneFootball

Blues handed major scare ahead of west London derby trip to Brentford

Xabi Alonso has been coy on Joao Pedro’s fitness ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League clash away to Brentford on Friday night.

Joao Pedro, who has been in scintillating form for the Blues so far this season, withdrew from Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad on Wednesday, having initially been recalled for friendlies against Australia and India following his shock World Cup snub over the summer.

The 24-year-old did not appear to be injured after grabbing a goal and an assist in Chelsea’s 2-2 draw at home to Hull last weekend, but he later missed training, sparking concerns about his fitness.

Only former club Brighton have scored more Premier League goals than Chelsea so far this season, and Joao Pedro has been a massive part of Alonso’s attack, with three strikes and three assists in four matches.

Asked if he could say what Joao Pedro’s injury is, Alonso replied: “No.”

Injury issues: Chelsea could be without Joao Pedro and Moises Caicedo against Brentford

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Chelsea could go to Brentford with key midfielder Moises Caicedo, who has endured an injury-hit start to the season.

The Ecuador international was eased back into action after returning late from the World Cup, only to be forced off injured 13 minutes after coming on for his first appearance of the campaign as Chelsea won 4-3 at home to Brighton last month.

The 24-year-old has not played since, though Alonso hinted that he could yet be involved against Brentford.

“He is getting close. Tomorrow we will take the final decision.”

Chelsea captain Reece James also missed training earlier this week and, like Joao Pedro and Caicedo, will be assessed ahead of the Brentford game.

“No it was just a decision for Tuesday, we will assess him,” Alonso said of that absence.

Marco Palestra, Jordan Henderson and Emmanuel Emegha could all be pushing for involvement for Chelsea against Brentford.

The trio of summer signings have yet to make their competitive debuts for the club due to injury, but have been training recently.