Who replaces Joao Pedro? How Xabi Alonso can solve Chelsea attacking dilemma

Joao Pedro sidelined for weeks with a thigh injury after Chelsea's toothless display at Tottenham; Alonso weighs options including Welbeck, Emegha and Palmer.

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso faces an attacking crisis after Joao Pedro suffered a thigh injury in training ahead of Saturday's 2-0 home defeat to Tottenham. The Brazilian, who had scored five goals and provided three assists in six appearances, will miss several weeks of action.

Alonso must find a solution before Wednesday's Carabao Cup trip to Liverpool. Danny Welbeck, who has started and scored in both previous cup ties this season, is expected to lead the line. Emmanuel Emegha, a 23-year-old Dutch forward signed from sister club Strasbourg in the summer, is now fit after injury and available for selection, though Alonso suggested a debut may come too soon. Morgan Rogers' experiment as a makeshift striker against Spurs failed to make an impact.

Alonso acknowledged Joao Pedro's importance but expressed confidence in his squad's ability to compete without him. "He is a key player. We will miss him," the manager said. "But we will have to be ready to deal with the injury and to be competitive."