Caicedo returns to Chelsea starting line-up determined to revive season

Moises Caicedo marked his return to Chelsea’s starting line-up with a commanding midfield display in a 5-1 victory over Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge.

The Ecuador international had made only one substitute appearance this season after suffering a recurring calf injury. He initially sustained the problem earlier in the campaign before suffering a setback during a brief return against Brighton in late August.

An extended international break allowed Caicedo to complete his recovery, and head coach Xabi Alonso named him in the starting XI for Chelsea’s emphatic win.

The 24-year-old made an immediate impact, winning four tackles – more than any other player on the pitch – while completing 96% of his passes.

Caicedo said he was relieved to be back with his team-mates after a difficult period on the sidelines.

“It feels so good to be back with the team and there is no better way to come back than with a win,” he told Chelsea TV.

“It was a tough moment, to be honest. I couldn’t be with the team, but now finally I am back. I just want to be with the team in every moment, so I’m so happy to come back.”

Despite his influential performance, Caicedo acknowledged that he was still regaining his full match fitness after spending an extended period out of action.

“I felt a little bit tired after a long time without playing, to be honest! I need to be careful, but I feel good,” he said.

“I enjoy being with the team, with the fans, with everybody. Now we want to keep working, keep pushing because we need to be up there.”

Chelsea’s result provided an ideal start to a demanding October schedule. Their next fixture is an away match against Everton, followed by a challenging run that includes meetings with Tottenham, Liverpool and Manchester United.

Caicedo said the squad was looking forward to testing itself against those leading opponents and would prepare with the aim of taking maximum points.

“Everybody is excited with those kind of games,” he said.

“It’s always nice to play in those games and for sure we will prepare well because we want to get as many points as possible.

“We want to keep going forward because we want to put Chelsea where they belong.”