Chelsea XI vs Sunderland: Starting lineup, confirmed team news, injury latest for Premier League today

The Blues midfielder had emerged as a slight doubt for the Premier League clash at the Stadium of Light as he was not spotted during the 15 minutes of Wednesday’s training session that was open to the media.

Xabi Alonso then revealed Caicedo’s absence was due to discomfort he felt after the Manchester United match, confirming the final training session before the trip to Sunderland, on Saturday, would be used as a guideline for the midfielder’s availability.

Mike Penders keeps his place in goal for Chelsea, despite Emi Martinez’s return to fitness

PA

Previously injured Argentine defender Aaron Anselmino has also been involved in training, after being selected to play for his country over the upcoming international window.

Joao Pedro and Maxence Lacroix are both still sidelined, along with Jorrel Hato and captain Reece James, who is recovering from knee surgery and unlikely to be available again until January.

Winger Jamie Gittens suffered an ankle injury on international duty with England’s Under-21s last month. He will be out for “a few weeks”, Alonso said a fortnight ago.

CONFIRMED TEAM NEWS

Chelsea XI vs Sunderland (3-4-2-1): Penders; Palestra, Fofana, Colwill, Chavarria; Lavia, Caicedo (c), Henderson; Palmer, Neto, Rogers

Substitutes: Sharman-Lowe, Anselmino, Gusto, Barco, Nicoll-Jazuli, Quenda, Estevao, Emegha, Welbeck