Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Moises Caicedo has suffered an injury recurrence.

The Ecuadorian missed the first two games of the campaign against Fulham and Luton Town, but he was on the substitutes’ bench for the 4-3 win over Brighton. Caicedo replaced Pedro Neto on 68 minutes, but he was forced to leave the pitch just 14 minutes later, with Valentin Barco taking his place. Asked about the nature of the injury after the match, Alonso said:

“He was cautious to stop and say his feeling wasn’t the best… We need to assess during the week, but it wasn’t something new.”

It is very unlikely that Caicedo will be available to face Arsenal at the Emirates this weekend.

Expected Return Date – Unknown

Jordan Henderson

The 36-year-old just needs the ‘all-clear’ from medical staff before being available for selection again.

Henderson needed surgery on a wrist injury he sustained in a freak accident whilst with England at the World Cup. He fell over an advertising hoarding following the Three Lions’ win over Mexico last month.

Asked about the midfielder’s fitness in his pre-match press conference before the victory against Brighton, Alonso said:

“[We’re waiting for him to be given] the green light to play soon.”

Expected Return Date – Sunday 6th September vs Arsenal (a)

Marco Palestra

The Italian international has missed the first three matches against Fulham, Luton and Brighton with an unspecified injury.

Speaking before the Carabao Cup tie versus Luton, Alonso hinted that Palestra would need further medical tests to determine how long he could be out for:

“Both [Caicedo and Palestra] won’t make it [vs Luton]. Let’s see, hopefully Moi could make it for the weekend, but we need to check a little bit more with Marco.”

It is a big blow for the 21-year-old, who looked very impressive in pre-season, but he is a serious doubt to face Arsenal.

Expected Return Date – Unknown