Chelsea face demanding October as Alonso looks to revive season
Chelsea return to Premier League action this weekend after the international break, with Xabi Alonso’s side facing a busy October that includes five fixtures.
The early weeks of Alonso’s reign have produced mixed results, with Chelsea winning two of their first five Premier League matches.
Wins over Fulham and Brighton have been followed by three league games without victory against Arsenal, Hull City and Brentford, leaving Chelsea with plenty to improve on.
Chelsea’s first game back comes at Stamford Bridge this weekend, when they host AFC Bournemouth. The Cherries are one of three teams, alongside Fulham and Tottenham, yet to win in the Premier League this season.
Alonso’s side then travel to Everton on 17 October for an early kick-off at the Hill Dickinson Stadium. Chelsea will be looking to avoid a repeat of their 3-0 defeat in March.
Tottenham visit Stamford Bridge on 24 October for a Saturday evening London derby. Chelsea have enjoyed a strong home record against Spurs and will be looking to extend that against Roberto De Zerbi’s side.
Four days later, Chelsea begin their Carabao Cup campaign with a trip to Liverpool. The fourth-round tie will see Alonso return to Anfield and gives Chelsea the chance to move a step closer to Wembley.
Manchester United provide the opposition in Chelsea’s final game of the month, with Michael Carrick’s side visiting Stamford Bridge on 31 October.
It is a difficult run of fixtures for Chelsea, with Alonso facing tests at both ends of the pitch. Improving their defensive record will be a priority if the Blues are to come through October with their season back on track.
Chelsea’s October Fixtures
Saturday 10 October Chelsea vs Bournemouth – Premier League (3pm)
Saturday 17 October Everton vs Chelsea – Premier League (12:30pm)
Saturday 24 October Chelsea vs Tottenham – Premier League (5:30pm)
Wednesday 28 October Liverpool vs Chelsea – Carabao Cup (8pm)
Saturday 31 October Chelsea vs Man Utd – Premier League (12:30pm)
