Chelsea: Xabi Alonso explains why Pep Chavarria and Malo Gusto missed Everton clash

It is understood that Chavarria had been set to get the nod at left wing-back for Alonso’s side, but when the lineup was announced, it was Jorrel Hato named in that position. Chavarria was not named in the squad for the game.

Standard Sport understands that Chavarria travelled up with the team for the game but a small fitness issue forced him to drop out of the squad. Hato, in Chavarria’s absence, assisted Neto’s opening goal.

Elsewhere, there was no place in the starting lineup for Gusto, who has played five times in the Premier League so far this season.

After the match, Alonso explained why both players were absent.

“Malo was ill,” the Chelsea manager said. “Pep, in the last session of training [on Friday], felt something.”

Before the match, Alonso had also been asked by TNT Sports why Chavarria had missed out on a place in the squad.

He had replied: “Pep picked up a little problem yesterday [Friday]. We are not certain of the [details] yet as it was late.”

Chelsea do not return to action until next Saturday, when they will welcome Tottenham to Stamford Bridge. Alonso will provide further updates on Gusto and Chavarria’s condition ahead of that match.