Chelsea split squad as Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson train separately
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has separated 12 players, including strikers Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson, from the main first-team training group amid uncertainty over their futures at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues currently have more than 40 senior professionals listed on their official club website.
Alonso has opted to divide the bloated squad to ensure manageable sessions as he prepares for his debut season in charge of the west London club.
Strikers face uncertain futures
The former Ipswich Town forward endured a difficult debut campaign that was heavily disrupted by a major injury.
Despite costing £30m just 12 months ago, the English attacker could be allowed to depart if the club’s £40m valuation is met.
Similarly, the former Bayern Munich loanee now finds himself training away from the core squad after falling down the pecking order.
Aston Villa have reportedly shown interest in the £65m-rated frontman, though his high asking price remains a significant stumbling block for any potential suitor.
New attacking trio preferred
Alonso is expected to utilise a streamlined attacking unit for the upcoming domestic campaign.
Last season’s top scorer Joao Pedro will be joined by new arrival Danny Welbeck and Emmanuel Emegha, who recently signed from Strasbourg.
Defenders Tosin Adarabioyo and Axel Disasi are also working exclusively with the secondary group.
Meanwhile, wingers like Mykhailo Mudryk and several youth academy prospects could be sent out on loan to secure regular playing time.
Avoiding past controversies
Despite the tactical division, Chelsea are actively avoiding the isolated approach that drew significant criticism from the PFA in previous seasons.
Both cohorts currently train simultaneously and on the exact same pitches at the club’s training base.
Recent midfield acquisition Jordan Henderson has split his time between the two groups in a bid to build up his match fitness.
Despite being heavily linked with a late transfer window move to Manchester City, Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez remains fully integrated with the primary squad.