Xabi Alonso has revealed why Chelsea defender Josh Acheampong was not included in their matchday squad to face Sunderland on Sunday afternoon in the Premier League.

Chelsea head to Wearside for their final game before the November international break, looking to claim back-to-back league wins after overcoming Manchester United last weekend.

Alonso was expected to continue with many of the starters from the United win, with the only doubts surrounding the goalkeeper position and Moises Caicedo. But Caicedo was passed fit, and Mike Penders was chosen to start in goal as Emiliano Martinez was not risked after recovering from jaw surgery.

But the biggest surprise was seeing Acheampong left out of the squad, let alone the starting XI. He has played eight of Chelsea's first nine league matches this season, starting the last four.

Acheampong's excellent performances have not come as a surprise, and they have earned him a call-up to the England Under-21s squad for the upcoming fixtures against Portugal and Frande. 

His absence against Sunderland was a big blow for the Blues, and Alonso has now explained the reasoning for the defender's omission.

"He is recovering from a minor thing," confirmed Alonso.

"He missed the fitness to be ready for today but we are expecting that he will be back after the international break. It’s a pity because he was in a good moment."

Alonso has had to deal with several absences in defence through injury already this season.

Maxence Lacroix is expected to be sidelined until the end of the year with a hamstring injury, while club captain Reece James is out until the New Year with a knee injury. 

James' absence has given Acheampong a chance to get a run of games to prove himself under Alonso, and he has very much taken every opportunity.

Acheampong's absence further reduces Alonso's options. Marco Palestra was given a start in his absence. The Italian summer signing had a shaky first-half performance against Man United, so he will be hoping for improvement in the coming weeks as he continues to settle into life in England.

Malo Gusto is Chelsea's other option on the right-hand side. He looks to be down the pecking order under Alonso. The club were open to selling Gusto in the summer transfer window, so the Blues don't appear to be counting too much on the Frenchman.

Fortunately for Chelsea, the international break is coming up, so they will hope Acheampong is back available to face Leeds United on November 21.