Xabi Alonso says whether Morgan Rogers will play in Fulham vs Chelsea

However, Rogers will be returning to pre-season late after reaching the semi-finals of the World Cup.

It means that the attacking midfielder may not start in the west London derby, but Alonso says he will be ready to play.

Chelsea fans, share your expectations for Xabi Alonso! 🏆

Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of Chelsea’s friendly against Western Sydney Wanderers, Alonso told Daily Mail journalist Kieran Gill: “All the ones who come later because they reached the final stages of the World Cup, they will be ready. They have to be ready.”

The above means that Maxence Lacroix is also likely to feature at Craven Cottage. Lacroix is set to join Chelsea from Crystal Palace and reached the last four of the World Cup as well with France.

The Blues could make at least one more big signing before the transfer window closes as they chase Bournemouth’s Alex Scott.

Chelsea have had a £64m bid for Scott turned down, but that does not appear to have deterred them amid speculation that they are readying another offer for the midfielder.

Between now and the end of the transfer window, plenty of exits are also expected. With Lacroix joining the club, a couple of centre-backs should be on their way out of Stamford Bridge.