CHELSEA PLAN SECRET TEST
Chelsea are using the international break to give their squad an unusual competitive test.
The Blues have arranged a behind-closed-doors friendly against Championship side Portsmouth.
The match is designed to keep players sharp while several first-team stars are away with their countries.
Chelsea have endured a difficult start to the Premier League season and currently sit in the middle of the table.
Manager Xabi Alonso therefore wants his available players to maintain match fitness before the league resumes.
One player attracting particular attention is Marco Palestra.
The summer signing has yet to make his competitive Chelsea debut after suffering a quad injury.
The friendly could give him valuable minutes as he works towards full fitness.
Cole Palmer could also feature.
The England international withdrew from the national team during the break as part of a workload-management decision.
That decision created some tension around the England camp, with Thomas Tuchel questioning how Palmer’s repeated withdrawals could affect his international opportunities.
For Chelsea, however, the priority is different.
They need their squad ready for the Premier League restart.
A private friendly will allow Alonso to assess players away from the public spotlight while also giving returning players an opportunity to rebuild their sharpness.
It could become especially important for players fighting for places once Chelsea’s full squad returns.