Chelsea injury update: When will Caicedo, Palestra, Henderson and others return from the sidelines
Chelsea could soon welcome back Moises Caicedo and Marco Palestra, but Xabi Alonso still has several injury concerns to manage after the win over Fulham.
Chelsea’s 3-2 victory over Fulham gave Xabi Alonso the perfect start in the Premier League, but the new manager is still waiting for several players to return to full fitness.
Moises Caicedo and Marco Palestra were notable absentees after suffering minor training setbacks, while Jordan Henderson continues to build his fitness following a wrist injury.
With the Carabao Cup meeting with Luton Town and a Premier League clash against Brighton ahead, Alonso will be keen to strengthen his squad as quickly as possible.
Moises Caicedo
Caicedo missed the Fulham game after suffering a minor issue during training, with Alonso confirming Chelsea decided against taking a risk with their midfield star.
The Ecuadorian was present at Craven Cottage and showed no obvious signs of serious discomfort, suggesting the problem is not considered major.
Chelsea will hope he can return against Luton, although his availability will depend on his recovery during the week.
Marco Palestra
Palestra was another surprise omission after picking up a setback in training. The summer arrival had impressed during pre-season and was expected to feature, but Alonso opted for caution.
Like Caicedo, the defender could potentially return for the Luton fixture if he makes sufficient progress, giving him an opportunity to make his competitive Chelsea debut.
Jordan Henderson
Henderson remains on the sidelines as he works towards full match fitness following the broken wrist he suffered while representing England at the World Cup.
The midfielder has returned to team training, which represents an encouraging step, but he was not considered ready for the Fulham trip. A return during September appears more realistic as Chelsea continue to manage his recovery.
Emmanuel Emegha
Emegha has yet to make his Chelsea debut after suffering a hamstring injury during July. The forward missed the club’s pre-season tour and remains unavailable, with no firm return date currently established.
Alonso will therefore have to wait before assessing the summer signing in competitive action.
Aaron Anselmino
Anselmino is recovering from a hamstring problem sustained during pre-season. The defender was forced off during Chelsea’s friendly against Johor Darul Ta’zim and has not featured since.
Given his previous muscular issues, Chelsea are expected to take a cautious approach to his rehabilitation, leaving his return date uncertain.
Mamadou Sarr
Sarr also picked up an injury during pre-season and has not featured since withdrawing from the squad before the Johor Darul Ta’zim friendly.
There is limited information regarding his recovery, while reports of a possible loan move could further complicate his immediate involvement with Alonso’s first-team plans.
