Alonso out for the season

Alonso had his ankle broken by fat Frank Lampard on New Year's Day and has not played since. Originally it looked like Alonso would only be out for three months but Rafael Benitez says it is looking unlikely that Alonso will play again this season.

"In my mind now I think that Xabi will not play again this season," said the boss.
 
"After three months, you don't know, some players can come straight back but some players take a lot of time. If Xabi comes back it will be a bonus."