Chelsea face fresh Moises Caicedo concern as Xabi Alonso prepares for eighth different pairing

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Kickjolly · AI-written · automatically reviewed · The Chelsea Chronicle ↗

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is preparing for his 13th match in all competitions, having already used eight different midfield pairings, according to The Chelsea Chronicle. Alonso's preferred pairing of Reece James and Moises Caicedo has been disrupted by Caicedo's calf issue. Jordan Henderson has also missed games due to injury, forcing Alonso to change his midfield lineup. Various pairings have been used, including James and Lavia, and Henderson and Valentin Barco.

Moises Caicedo was reportedly missing from Chelsea's training on Wednesday ahead of their match against Sunderland, as claimed by Football London. The reason for his absence is unclear, but it may be related to an injury or load management. Caicedo and Lavia partnered for the first time this season in Chelsea's win over Manchester United on Saturday. If Caicedo is absent, Henderson is likely to come in, having been fit again after missing the Manchester United game due to illness.

With Caicedo potentially absent, Alonso may be forced to make another change to his midfield pairing, potentially leading to an eighth different combination. Henderson and Lavia have not yet started together for Chelsea, making them a possible pairing against Sunderland. Lavia had a strong performance against Manchester United, and is likely to start. Henderson has already played against two of his former clubs, Brentford and Liverpool, and could face another, Sunderland.