Xabi Alonso reveals why Chelsea star didn’t make squad for Sunderland clash

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso explained that defender Josh Acheampong missed the Premier League fixture against Sunderland due to a minor fitness issue. The 20-year-old had made 11 appearances across all competitions this season but was left out of the matchday squad entirely at the Stadium of Light. Alonso stated that the England Under-21 international is expected to return following the upcoming international break.

With Acheampong unavailable, Alonso selected a defensive line consisting of Marco Palestra, Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, and Pep Chavarria. Elsewhere in the lineup, forward Estevao dropped to the substitutes' bench, while goalkeeper Mike Penders started as Emiliano Martinez remains sidelined until after the international break.