Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Moises Caicedo came off as a precaution as he was 'not feeling the best' during Chelsea's 4-3 win over Brighton. Cole Palmer's sublime 74th-minute strike proved decisive as Alonso's men continued their 100 per cent start in the Premier League in a seven-goal thriller at Stamford Bridge.
However, the concern surrounding Caicedo's fitness took some of the gloss off an otherwise positive afternoon for the Blues, with the midfielder coming on as a second-half substitute before being replaced in the 82nd minute. The 24-year-old was pictured sitting on the turf for some time while receiving treatment on his left leg from Chelsea's medical team, before summer signing Valentin Barco was sent on in his place.
Caicedo's fitness to face Arsenal in doubt
The fleeting cameo from Caicedo was the Ecuadorian's first appearance of the season in all competitions due to a knock – and there are growing fears he may not be able to start against Arsenal next weekend. Facing the media shortly after the final whistle, Alonso said Caicedo's fitness would be closely monitored in the days leading up to the side's trip to the Emirates.
'He was cautious, to stop, to say he was not feeling the best,' Alonso told reporters when asked for an update on Caicedo's condition at his post-match press conference. 'We will assess during the week. It was not something new.'
Alonso reflects on the win and Martinez's debut
Asked if he was able to enjoy the win, the Spaniard replied: 'Quite a lot. I enjoy all the wins a lot. It was a game that had different moments, there were different feelings. We are happy with the result. We value a win against this very good opponent. We are in a process and we need to keep improving.'
It proved a memorable first outing for Emiliano Martinez following the goalkeeper's transfer move from Aston Villa only hours earlier. 'With Emi, a World Cup winner, 34 years old, experience all around, I spoke with him yesterday, we talked about the game, about our team, and he felt ready,' Alonso said of his decision to start the Argentinian. 'Day by day, we will feel his presence, because he has this charisma, this aura.'
Fernandez left out amid transfer speculation
Enzo Fernandez was left out of Chelsea's matchday squad for the contest, with the midfielder expected to join Manchester City before Tuesday's transfer deadline. 'We are preparing for all scenarios,' the Chelsea manager said when asked for an update on Fernandez's situation. 'I can promise you that, whatever happens, from Wednesday, we will have a good enough squad to compete in all the Premier League games.'
