Xabi Alonso has given an injury update ahead of Chelsea's Premier League match against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, with Michael Carrick's side the visitors.
Speaking to media at Cobham Training Ground on Friday, the Chelsea boss said defender Maxence Lacroix will be out for a few weeks after picking up what appeared to be a hamstring injury during Tuesday's Carabao Cup fourth-round match against Liverpool. Lacroix pulled up in the closing stages of the first half, grabbing the back of his left thigh. Alonso said: \"Max picked up an injury and we expect he is not going to be ready before the international break. He will be a few weeks out.\"
Moises Caicedo also suffered what Alonso called a 'little problem' at Anfield, which led to his substitution in the second half. Despite earlier concerns over his availability for the United fixture, Alonso confirmed the midfielder is fit to play, saying: \"No issue. He's okay for tomorrow.\"
Asked whether Emiliano Martínez, who is recovering from surgery on a fractured jaw, could return before the international break, Alonso said: \"There's a chance. We still need to wait until next week, but there's a chance. In case he's ready to play, he will probably need a face mask.\"
On the availability of Jorrel Hato and Pep Chavarría, both left out of the matchday squad for the Liverpool game, Alonso said: \"Jorrel, no, but Pep Chavarría, yes.\"
Alonso also addressed the situation of Aarón Anselmino, who has featured in the matchday squad only once this season, as a substitute during the second round of the Carabao Cup in August. \"He's not available yet,\" the Chelsea boss said. \"He's had a few injuries. It will take a few weeks until he is fully fit.\"
Alonso noted that his preparation time has been limited compared to Carrick, who has had a full week with his squad. \"Mentally, yes, physically, we've had one day of working,\" he said. \"This is the Premier League; sometimes you don't get what you want.\"
He added: \"I saw a better version of us on Wednesday than I did on Saturday, even if it wasn't a good result either. This is going to be a journey; we need to learn from our tough moments.\"
