Chelsea team news ahead of their EFL Cup trip to Anfield is grim. The Blues have lost their leading striker, Joao Pedro, to injury, and their star playmaker, Cole Palmer, to suspension.
Match Details
Competition: EFL Cup, fourth round
Kickoff: Wednesday, Oct. 28, 8pm
Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
Cup run so far: Chelsea beat Leeds 6-3 and Luton Town 2-0. Liverpool beat Spurs 3-1.
Joao Pedro Out Indefinitely
Pedro picked up an undisclosed injury in training before Chelsea’s 2-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur. It is believed to be linked to his ongoing knee problems, and there is no return date.
Manager Xabi Alonso explained the situation on Friday:
“He felt something [in training yesterday]. At the moment he has some liquids, so we need to do some tests to know how big is the injury. And we, for sure it’s disappointment, but we need to carry him.”
The swelling is so severe that doctors cannot yet get an accurate scan. Once the tests are done, Alonso may give a fuller update on how long Pedro will be out.
Cole Palmer Suspended
Palmer was sent off against Spurs after collecting two yellow cards in the second half. The first came for an off-the-ball incident involving Mateus Fernandes. The second came for a foul on Conor Gallagher.
The England playmaker’s one-match ban falls on this Liverpool tie rather than the next Premier League game. Red card suspensions carry over across domestic competitions, while bans for accumulated yellow cards are served in the competition where they were picked up. That means Palmer will be available for Saturday’s Premier League match against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.
Chavarria and Emegha Close to Fitness
There is some good news. Pep Chavarria and Emmanuel Emegha are nearing full fitness, but Chelsea are unlikely to risk them at Anfield. Both are expected back against a struggling United side.
Still on the Sidelines
Reece James, Emi Martinez and Jamie Gittens remain out with longer-term injuries.