Xabi Alonso says the international break is “too long” after having three weeks to digest Chelsea’s 3-0 hammering at Brentford.
Alonso’s early promise at Stamford Bridge has dissipated somewhat after a run of three league games without a win, culminating in their horror show at the Gtech Community Stadium on September 18, has left them 10th in the Premier League table.
The Blues boss would have preferred to have had a swifter chance to right the wrongs of that performance but will finally get the chance when Bournemouth visit Stamford Bridge tomorrow.
He said: “If you ask me which way I prefer, with three weeks or two breaks or one be so long, I prefer the other way. This one you disconnect too much. It’s too long. For the dynamic of a club coach, I prefer the other way.
“We have had time to analyse the game, recover some players and get ready for tomorrow. We need to keep learning, to be in the process, to be able to read the moment, adapt to the situation. From each game, we are learning things. We need to make sure we don’t make the same mistakes again.”
Bournemouth will arrive in West London without a win after five games but Alonso is not expecting an easy afternoon.
“A tough test. So intense, high tempo game, so demanding,” he said. “They know what they’re doing with Marco [Rose] and previously with Andoni [Iraola]. The core of the team is the same. We need to have a good game and we need a win.”
Chelsea midfielder Caicedo to make welcome return
Alonso is likely to be boosted by the return of several key players, including Moises Caicedo, who has managed just 14 minutes this season due to injury.
Alonso said: ”Yes, he is ready to go. Finally. Anyone would miss a player of his quality and importance. We have missed him for sure and we are happy he is back and he feels better. We didn’t want to take risks for Brentford for example but he feels much better.”
Reece James and Joao Pedro are also available while Cole Palmer has shrugged off the knock that led to him withdrawing from the England squad for the recent Nations League games.
“Yes, they have been training. Some earlier than others. Marco Palestra as well. They have trained well and ready to go. For sure, we know they are key players and important,” said Alonso.
On Palmer, he added: “He has trained this week and feels better. The most important thing for Cole is to be fully fit and enjoying his game. For the next part we have a good feeling with him and he is feeling better.”
Winger Jamie Gittens is facing a few weeks on the sidelines, though, after sustaining an ankle injury.
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