Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has explained the reasons behind captain Reece James and forward Joao Pedro missing Friday's Premier League trip to Brentford. James suffered a fresh hamstring setback after last weekend's draw, while Pedro is sidelined following a blistering start to the campaign. The Blues were forced to adapt their squad to cover these significant absences for the clash.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has officially unveiled his squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures, headlined by the high-profile returns of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Cole Palmer. Both players missed out on the recent World Cup campaign but have forced their way back into the international fold following scintillating starts to the domestic season.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso revealed Moises Caicedo is getting closer to full fitness as the Blues assess several key players ahead of facing Brentford. Alonso urged caution over captain Reece James and Joao Pedro while bracing for a stern physical test.