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English Premier League

Xabi Alonso jokes about Emiliano Martinez's mask as Chelsea boss downplays Cole Palmer's England snub

Xabi Alonso jokes about Emiliano Martinez's mask as Chelsea boss downplays Cole Palmer's England snub
English Premier League · 02:39:23 - Monday, 9 November 2026

Liverpool manager Xabi Alonso quipped that Emiliano Martinez's protective mask was "not from a Halloween shop" ahead of the Carabao Cup fourth-round tie against Chelsea on Friday.

Meanwhile, Chelsea's manager played down the significance of Cole Palmer's omission from the latest England squad, insisting the forward remains focused on club duties.

The match at Anfield marks the first meeting between the sides in this season's League Cup.

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