Xabi Alonso backs world-class Moises Caicedo to fix Chelsea’s defensive woes ahead of Brentford trip | OneFootball

Xabi Alonso has backed Moises Caicedo to bring balance to Chelsea, hailing him as 'one of the top midfielders in the world'.

Caicedo has featured for only 14 minutes in thePremier League so far this season after the Ecuadorian was forced off during his first appearance of the campaign against Brighton.

Alonso has offered an optimistic update on Caicedo, who could return for tomorrow's trip to Brentford.

"He is getting closer and tomorrow we will take the final decision in the team and in the squad that is coming to Brentford," Alonso said at hispre-match press conference.

Chelsea have struggled defensively so far this season, conceding 10 goals in six games across all competitions.

Alonso has called on his team to tighten up, and believes Caicedo's return will improve his team's defensive record. He said the 24-year-old will make Chelsea a 'better team', calling Caicedo one of the world's best in his position.

"Moises is one of the top midfielders in the world. And for sure anything with him in the middle is a better team and we are aware of that. But at this moment we will see tomorrow.

"He has not been able to play so we have had to cope with that situation and when he will play, we will benefit from his qualities, his balance, his presence. I think that he is very inspirational for the players and they are looking forward to it."

Alonso has changed shape throughout the campaign as he looks for improved security, and the Spaniard said his team's poor recent record is about more than formations and personnel.

"The defence is all the team it is not just the back four or the back five whatever. It is about the team, it is how we compete, how we adapt to the different moments when we take the lead or when the game is even.

"We need to have the same mentality to be competing in different moments. We know that thePremier League is very difficult to control the whole game. But, to be able to adapt, to feel that you have the awareness that is needed, it is very important for sure.

"I've had four or five weeks since we started, this is going to be the seventh game in this block. It is an important one because it is before the international break, because it is Premier League, because it is away against Brentford.

"It's always tough so we will have to play with a high demand game."