Controversial Chelsea player “more focused” after major life event claims Alonso; fans aren’t so sure

Xabi Alonso has defended Wesley Fofana after the defended continued suffering from some pretty bad form in last week’s games.

Wesley Fofana has gradually become a bit of a hate figure for Chelsea fans.

The massive transfer fee and wages the Frenchman on aren’t his fault, nor were the injuries that ruined his first three years at the club. But they did mean he had very little patience or credit in the bank when he started playing.

His performances and attitude last season, especially under Liam Rosenior, were a disgrace, and he’s had some stinkers this season too. He struggled in the first half against Manchester United, and in the press conference today Xabi Alonso was asked if he had even thought about taking the central defender off at half time in that game.

“No, no, because it’s about dealing with difficult moments and he did many good things. For sure, the mistakes, he knew and he reacted really well the second half he was solid,” Alonso said.

“He was reliable, as he was in Liverpool despite the [missed] penalty. So no, no, he will know that I didn’t think that. He’s been already at the club for four years, so it’s part of part of the job to deal with a sound that is not what you want to hear, to deal with mistakes, to deal with difficult situations.

“So, I’m seeing now that he’s very focused this year. This is mature. He’s had his baby, so that’s making him more mature, as well as taking more responsibilities on the pitch as well. Sometimes he’s not direct, but sometimes he helps as well, so we support him, and he’s important.”

More focused? We’ll believe it when we see it.

The manager gave an important update on Moises Caicedo, who missed a training session earlier this week. The Basque was infuriatingly vague, as ever.

Alonso also spoke about Emi Martinez and gave some hints that he could make an unexpected early return to Chelsea’s team this weekend.