It was tough’ Alonso admits he was frustrated under Lampard

found himself down in the pecking order at the start of the season and was not included in Chelsea’s line-up for 16 consecutive league matches.

was

Frank Lampard

’s choice for the left-back position and displayed great form under the English coach. However, Alonso was recalled to the line-up when

Thomas Tuchel

took charge at Stamford Bridge and since then has appeared in eight matches for the Blues.

Alonso told

:

“Was it frustrating not playing? Yes, of course. I was not getting many chances. It was tough.

“But this is football. Sometimes it is like this. All you can do is keep working hard, keep training and try to be ready for when the chance comes.

“When I am on the pitch it is easier. When I used to stay home it was not easy to help the team.

“But I’m very happy to get involved and to be able to help the team and I’m looking forward to more of this.”

Chelsea will play against

on Saturday before facing

in the Champions League three days later.

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for the

.