According to a report published on Chelsea Football Club's official website on Friday, October 16, 2026, the Blues are preparing for their trip to Merseyside following their impressive 5-1 victory over Bournemouth in their previous league fixture.

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Emmanuel Emegha and Jamie Gittens will miss Saturday's Premier League meeting with Everton, while captain Reece James remains unavailable after undergoing knee surgery.

The Everton encounter will be Chelsea's first away match of the season, with Alonso hoping his side can maintain its strong start despite several injury setbacks.

Speaking ahead of the game, Alonso revealed that there were no new major injury concerns in the squad. However, Emegha will not be involved after suffering a minor issue during Thursday's training session.

The Chelsea manager said the striker is expected to resume training next week but is not yet ready to return to competitive football. His absence means Alonso will have to wait before including him in his matchday plans.

Gittens will also sit out the Everton fixture after sustaining an injury while on international duty with England Under-21s. The winger is expected to remain out for several more weeks, adding to Chelsea's injury concerns.

Meanwhile, James is recovering from knee surgery after picking up an injury during training last Friday. Chelsea have not announced a specific timeframe for his return, leaving the club without its captain during an important period of the season.

Despite James' absence, Alonso believes the defender can still make a significant contribution to the team while recovering. The manager highlighted the captain's leadership and experience as valuable qualities that can continue to benefit the squad from the sidelines.

Chelsea will now aim to secure another positive result against Everton and continue their momentum in the Premier League.

Both teams had 10 points before Saturday's encounter, making the fixture an important opportunity for either side to move above the other in the league standings.