EPL: Xabi Alonso reveals huge ‘mistake’ he made after Arsenal defeat

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has admitted that he made a mistake by bringing Moises Caicedo back into action too early following his recent injury concerns.

Caicedo missed Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Fulham and was also unavailable for their Carabao Cup victory over Luton Town.

The Ecuadorian midfielder eventually returned to action during Chelsea’s 3-0 victory over Brighton last weekend, coming on in the 68th minute to replace Pedro Neto.

However, his comeback lasted only 14 minutes as Caicedo was forced off after suffering another injury. Chelsea summer signing Valentin Barco replaced him.

The setback ruled Caicedo out of Chelsea’s Premier League clash against Arsenal on Sunday, with Alonso’s side eventually suffering a 2-1 defeat.

Despite the latest injury, Alonso insisted that Caicedo does not have a long-term problem but admitted that Chelsea must be more careful with his recovery.

“It is not long term, but it’s about assessing the risk.

“Probably, last week, we took him too early and I don’t want to make the same mistake again.

“We need [Caicedo and Colwill] because they are top players and with them we are a better team.”

Alonso’s comments suggest Chelsea will avoid rushing Caicedo back into action until the midfielder is considered fully ready.

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The Blues will now monitor his condition closely as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures, with Caicedo regarded as an important part of Alonso’s midfield.