Start or sub? Pundits debate what Xabi Alonso should do with key player tomorrow

Moises Caicedo is “ready to go” for Chelsea’s game against Bournemouth tomorrow. But how ready is that? A podcast debated it.

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The big news for Chelsea’s game against Bournemouth tomorrow afternoon is that Moises Caicedo is fit to play.

Xabi Alonso confirmed his key midfielder is “ready to go” in his press conference today, after missing almost all of the season so far.

But how ready is ready? On the London is Blue podcast they discussed what

Should Alonso and Chelsea risk starting Caicedo vs Bournemouth? pic.twitter.com/89SRbbJLIw

Should Alonso and Chelsea risk starting Caicedo vs Bournemouth? pic.twitter.com/89SRbbJLIw

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Moises Caicedo (Photo by Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Presenter Dan Dormer was insistent that Chelsea should be cautious with their Ecuadorian powerhouse.

“I think it is a ‘protect the player at all costs’ situation. I think if he is if he’s 45 minutes ready, he’s probably a ‘sub on for a back 30, back 25 minutes’, rather than starting this fixture,” Dormer said.

“If he’s good for a maximum of 60 minutes, 65 minutes, then I think you’re starting him.”

We’d be inclined to agree. If there is any risk at all, he shouldn’t play. If he can’t play a full game, we’d rather see the team try to muddle through without him for 45 minutes, then bring him on in the second half to amp up the pressure. We certainly don’t want to be is a position where we’re taking him off while needing to turn the game around.

Josh Acheampong was praised once again by Xabi Alonso in today’s presser – but will it mean a start for the defender tomorrow?

The injury news from today’s press conference was great – the three week break came at a perfect time for Chelsea it seems.