Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso has labelled Emmanuel Emegha a “very special” player, despite his continued absence from the first-team squad.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference on Friday afternoon, Alonso revealed that the Dutchman has suffered yet another injury setback in training:

“He’s not yet [available]. He felt something [on Thursday], a little thing.”

However, Alonso did also say that Emegha should be back on the grass “next week”, but he has not been able to get “100% fit” since his arrival during the summer transfer window. Asked what the player could offer when he is available, Alonso replied:

“He is very special because he’s 195 centimetres (6ft5in). He’s quick, he attacks the space, he’s a threat. So he needs to be fully fit, and at this moment he’s having little things, and unfortunately he’s not been available. But we are looking forward to that. He feels good, and he can help the team, but he’s going to be difficult for the defenders when he’s in good shape.”

When could Emegha make his debut?

If the 23-year-old can get through training next week, then he could be named in the matchday squad for the London derby against Tottenham.

Emegha is currently behind Joao Pedro and Danny Welbeck in the pecking order, though, so it is more than likely that he will have to wait until the Carabao Cup tie against Liverpool later this month to get substantial game time.

Other Chelsea injury news

Captain Reece James has been forced to undergo surgery on a knee problem he picked up prior to the win over Bournemouth. The 26-year-old has been ruled out for up to three months.

Alonso has also provided an update on Jamie Gittens. The Spaniard said the winger is “still a few weeks” away from returning from the ankle injury he sustained whilst playing for England’s Under-21s.