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Xabi Alonso makes early Mike Penders decision ahead of Liverpool

Xabi Alonso has backed Mike Penders after his costly error against Spurs, insisting he fully supports the young goalkeeper ahead of Liverpool.

By Leah Jones · The Pride Of London

Published: Tuesday, 27 October 2026 at 9:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Xabi Alonso confirmed goalkeeper Mike Penders will start Chelsea's Carabao Cup tie against Liverpool.
Penders made an own-goal error during Chelsea's 2-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.
Alonso publicly backed the 21-year-old Belgian, calling the mistake a lesson and a normal challenge.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that goalkeeper Mike Penders will start Wednesday's Carabao Cup match against Liverpool. The decision comes despite the 21-year-old punching a corner into his own net during Chelsea's 2-0 Premier League defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.

Alonso voiced full support for Penders, describing the error as an unavoidable learning experience at the highest level. Penders is expected to continue playing a key role while first-choice goalkeeper Emi Martinez remains sidelined with an injury for several weeks.

Read the full article on The Pride Of London

Xabi Alonso makes early Mike Penders decision ahead of Liverpool

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