Chelsea's first five fixtures after the international break as Xabi Alonso given huge boost

Xabi Alonso has two weeks or so to prepare Chelsea for a gruelling handful of fixtures.

Chelsea need to make up lost ground in the race for UEFA Champions League qualification.

Following a disappointing defeat to Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium on Friday night, the Blues plunged to 10th in the Premier League, with only a point keeping them from dropping into the bottom half of the table.

Chelsea had enjoyed a promising start to the new season, storming past Fulham at Craven Cottage and Brighton at Stamford Bridge. The Blues haven't tasted victory in the English top-flight since the end of August, surrendering early leads in a defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium and a draw to Hull City on home turf.

The Bees piled on the misery before the international break, extending Xabi Alonso's winless streak to three games. Fortunately for the Spaniard, he now has two weeks or so to steady the ship and work closely with many of his key players at Cobham training ground before leading Chelsea back into battle.

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Following the withdrawal of Cole Palmer from the England squad due to a muscular injury, Alonso could have as many as 13 first-team players at arm's length during the international break. Joao Pedro, Moises Caicedo, and Reece James are said to be nursing knocks.

Meanwhile, Levi Colwill, Marco Palestra, Danny Welbeck, Jamie Gittens, Jordan Henderson, Malo Gusto, Pep Chavarria, Wesley Fofana, and Aaron Anselmino could be among those on the grass, so Alonso will hope to capitalise on the extra training time.

Bournemouth (H) – Premier League – Saturday, October 10

Neither Chelsea nor Bournemouth can afford to leave Stamford Bridge with anything less than three points in the first game back after the international break. The Blues need to return to winning ways after a handful of disappointing results, while the Cherries are yet to taste victory in the Premier League this term.

Everton (A) – Premier League – Saturday, October 17

Alonso will undoubtedly get a hostile reception when Chelsea lock horns with Everton, so the former Liverpool midfielder will be desperate to leave Merseyside with three points. Fortunately for the Blues, who lost 3-0 last time they visited the Hill Dickinson Stadium, the game will be played at 12:30 pm... and not under the lights!

Tottenham Hotspur (H) – Premier League – Saturday, October 24

The Battle of the Bridge will, however, be played under the lights. Chelsea have won 11 of their last 13 games against Tottenham Hotspur across all competitions, regardless of the venue, losing just once.

Liverpool (A) – Carabao Cup fourth round – Wednesday, October 28

As a former Liverpool player, Alonso will understand the magnitude of the game and the value in leaving Anfield victorious. Even though Chelsea will be back in action a few days later, the Spaniard will be expected to throw the kitchen sink at Andoni Iraola's side.

Manchester United (H) – Premier League – Saturday, October 31

Another huge test for Chelsea. Manchester United have looked rather lacklustre under Michael Carrick so far this season, so the Blues need to pile on the misery and leave no room for mercy in what could very easily be the game that springs the Red Devils to life.