Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso faces important selection decisions ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The Blues make the trip to Merseyside seeking to build momentum following their commanding 5-1 home victory over Bournemouth, but medical updates from Cobham have confirmed significant absences across the squad.

Squad captain Reece James will miss the encounter after undergoing minor knee surgery following a training ground setback, leaving the right wingback role open for tactical reshuffling.

Summer signing Jamie Gittens also remains unavailable due to an ankle injury sustained during international duty, while striker Emmanuel Emegha is only considered a bench option as he recovers from a hamstring strain.

In goal, Robert Sanchez is expected to maintain his position behind a potential three-man central defense featuring Wesley Fofana, Maxence Lacroix, and Levi Colwill.

Marco Palestra and Pep Chavarria are strongly tipped to operate as wingbacks, providing width alongside a central midfield pairing of Moises Caicedo and Jordan Henderson.

Further forward, key playmaker Cole Palmer is projected to partner Morgan Rogers in attacking midfield roles directly behind central forward Joao Pedro.

With no suspension issues affecting the squad, Alonso possesses quality options on the bench including Pedro Neto and Estevao Willian to influence proceedings.

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