Moises Caicedo Remains a Doubt for Chelsea's Trip to Brentford

Moises Caicedo remains a doubt for Chelsea's trip to Brentford on Friday, with the midfielder yet to return to full training as he continues his recovery from a calf injury.

Caicedo has missed Chelsea's last two Premier League matches and has not featured since a substitute cameo against his old club Brighton on matchday two. Head coach Xabi Alonso has been cautious throughout the recovery process, saying last week: "Not yet. We'll see for Brentford. We're not at a moment to take risks with him." Romeo Lavia and Reece James have deputised in central midfield during his absence, though Chelsea's title-chasing squad also has doubts over James, who was missing from full training this week.

Alonso has confirmed Brentford as the target return date not just for Caicedo but for several other absentees, including Jordan Henderson, who continues working back from a wrist injury, and summer signing Marco Palestra, who is in the final stages of recovery from a quad problem. Chelsea will not risk any of the trio if their fitness is not fully assured, with a lengthy international break following the Brentford match offering further recovery time regardless.