Chelsea will be without Joao Pedro for several weeks after manager Xabi Alonso confirmed the striker has suffered a thigh injury ahead of the EFL Cup meeting with Liverpool.
The Brazil international missed Saturday’s game against Tottenham and is not expected to be available for Chelsea’s next few matches. Alonso said the club would have to manage without an important member of the squad, beginning against Liverpool.
“He has an injury of his thigh and is going to be out for a few weeks. Let’s see how many. He’s not ready for the next games,” Alonso said.
“Of course, he’s a key player. We’ll miss him. We have to be ready to deal with the injury, starting tomorrow with Liverpool.”
Chelsea consider options after Joao Pedro injury
Alonso has several alternatives available in attack, although his decision against Tottenham did not produce the desired result. Morgan Rogers was moved into the central striking role, while Geovany Quenda came into the side, but Chelsea struggled to retain possession and create opportunities.
Danny Welbeck has acted as Joao Pedro’s deputy so far this season, while Emmanuel Emegha could now be given an opportunity following his return to fitness.
The Dutch forward has trained for the past 10 days and could make his Chelsea debut against Liverpool. Alonso said Emegha’s availability was important after the former Strasbourg player built up his fitness.
“For sure, it’s important we have him available,” the manager said. “He’s been training for the last 10 days in a good way to allow him to build up his fitness. Maybe tomorrow he has the chance to play.”
Chelsea therefore face Liverpool without Joao Pedro, with Alonso weighing up whether to use a direct replacement or turn to another attacking solution.
