Chelsea will look to return back to winning ways as quickly as possible on Thursday when they meet Malmo in Sweden.
The Blues will want to bounce back immediately from their 6-0 mauling by Manchester City last weekend and will view the Europa League competition as an ideal opportunity.
The pressure is thought to be firmly on Maurizio Sarri and a win against the Swedes in the first leg could bring some confidence back to his players.
However, according to the club’s official website, two men did not make the trip to Scandinavia as the manager explained the reasons for their absences.
Both Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Marcos Alonso remained at Stamford Bridge, with Sarri explaining one was down to injury whilst the other was for tactical reasons.
“Loftus-Cheek is out with the same problem, with his back,” he told the club’s official website.
“It’s not the most serious problem, I hope he [is back] for the FA Cup, but it was impossible for tomorrow. I want Marcos to rest for one match. No physical problem.”
The Verdict:
Chelsea have looked extremely poor away from home this season and their match with Malmo could prove to be a tricky affair.
Loftus-Cheek has been on the fringes of the first-team, however, he has excelled in the Europa League when giving the opportunity.
Alonso has divided opinions between fans under Sarri, however, with his attacking ability, he could be a big absence on Thursday.
Chelsea fans – thoughts?
