It feels like it has been a long time since Chelsea have enjoyed a period of such stability.

Xabi Alonso will go into his media conference before the trip to Everton having secured his biggest and most accomplished win, at least in terms of the scoreline, of his tenure so far with the 5-1 victory over Bournemouth.

Of course, in the Cherries manager's own words, Bournemouth did not turn up at Stamford Bridge, but there is no doubt the tweaks made over the international break have left the Blues in a better place.

One key talking point before Saturday's match, however, is the loss of captain Reece James and the attempt to work out exactly how long he could be sidelined.

That is a blow, but the rest of Chelsea's squad appears to be in a good place and Friday's news conference may provide an opportunity to explore some themes around individual players.