FIFA WORLD CUP (That's a Frustrating & Invasive tournament For boss Alonso)

XABI ALONSO has not even taken charge of a competitive game for Chelsea yet and already his biggest challenge is unfolding thousands of miles away at the World Cup.

- BY BOBBY VINCENT

The Spaniard would have been forgiven for wishing he had inherited the Stamford Bridge hotseat in a summer free from international distractions.

Instead, as he attempts to mould Chelsea into his own image, two of the players he considers most important are starring on football's biggest stage - and potentially attracting suitors with every passing game.