Alonso: Reece James injury won't alter our transfer plans

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has insisted that Reece James' latest injury setback will not alter the club's winter transfer plans. It was confirmed earlier today that the Blues' captain has undergone knee surgery, with reports suggesting he faces around three months on the sidelines.

"No, it won't change our plans because we expect him back around that time, whether it's a few weeks earlier or later. We'll see. The timeline with him isn't exact, but it doesn't affect our transfer plans," Alonso said.

Asked who will wear the armband in James' absence, the Spaniard replied: "We have Moi [Moisés Caicedo], we have Levi [Colwill]—players who step up, take responsibility, and embrace the role perfectly. They have the full support of the team when wearing the captain's armband, so it's not a problem at all."

Alonso was also asked whether his side could set up in a 4-4-2 again, having adopted the shape during defensive phases against Bournemouth.

"We want to be flexible, but at the same time solid when pressing high. We feel the balance is right. We took that approach against Bournemouth, but against Everton things will be different. They do a lot of things very well and have plenty of quality, experienced players. The system could be 4-4-2 or 5-2-3, but the distances, how you support each other, and maintaining proper balance—that's what you need to defend. What happens once you win the ball back, that's another story."