Chelsea have lost their last two matches as they were beaten by Tottenham Hotspur last weekend and knocked out of the EFL Cup by Liverpool, but have the chance to get back to winning ways against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.
Xabi Alonso’s men take on the Red Devils in the opening fixture of matchday nine on Saturday, October 31st, at 12:30 local time. With three defeats in the Premier League already, the Blues have little room for slip-ups now.
Here is a look at the starting eleven they are likely to employ against Man United.
Goalkeeper – Mike Penders is expected to keep his place in goal with Emiliano Martinez injured.
Defenders – Chelsea could revert to a three-man backline this week. While Josh Acheampong and Maxence Lacroix are both in contention to retain their berths in the playing eleven, Levi Colwill might replace Wesley Fofana.
Hato and Palmer return, Welback at number nine
Midfielders – Jordan Henderson and Moises Caicedo don’t provide as much pace and creativity in midfield, but with Chelsea’s lack of depth in the engine room, Xabi Alonso is likely to go with the Englishman and Ecuadorian partnership in the double pivot once more.
Meanwhile, Pedro Neto might start as the right wing-back with the freedom to drift inwards, whereas Jorrel Hato might be back in the playing eleven to feature at left wing-back.
Forwards – Cole Palmer served a one-match suspension midweek in the EFL Cup after receiving a red card versus Tottenham Hotspur last weekend. Therefore, he is available for selection and might feature as the right winger, while Morgan Rogers may play on the left flank.
Joao Pedro’s injury means Danny Welbeck is likely to be handed the nod by Chelsea at number nine against his former side.
Here’s a look at how the home side is expected to look on paper.
