Rock bottom in the league table, Crystal Palace have another a stern test against defending champions Chelsea, who themselves will look to get back to winning ways after losing to Manchester City prior to the international break.
The Eagles will look to capitalise on the fact that two of the most influential players for Chelsea aren’t going to feature in the game.
Team News
Crystal Palace are boosted by the return of Zaha, who will probably feature in the matchday squad if not start the game.
Ruben Loftus Cheek will not feature in this game as he is ineligible against his parent club while Connor Wickham and Christian Benteke are out.
Predicted line up: (4-3-3)
GK: Wayne Hennessy
He is expected to start in goal. He’s got good reach and a pair of safe hands and could be in for a busy game against Conte’s side.
RB: Joel Ward
He will play as right-back. A little more width is needed from his side but he could be pinned back a lot with Hazard in sublime form.
CB: Mamadou Sakho
He is probably their most important player. He needs to coordinate and organise the back line.
CB: Damien Delaney
He needs to use his strength to the fullest to stop this Chelsea side. He is expected to start alongside Sakho.
LB: Patrick van Aanholt
Another full-back who hasn’t been able to express himself. A sure starter though.
RM: Yohan Cabaye
Be it playing at the back or getting into the box, Cabaye has to be a little quicker on the ball. He is creative and smart.
CM: James McArthur
A tactical change which allows Puncheon to play a little further up. McArthur is disciplined and sharp.
LM: Jason Puncheon
Will start in left midfield and look to make something on the counter.
RW: Andros Townsend
He would have to do a lot of running, in wide areas or to drive into the centre. Has to be at his very best in terms of his crossing. Will be key on the counters.
LW: Jeffrey Schlupp
He has been rather satisfactory and will play down the wing.
ST: Bakary Sako
Expected to start with the absence of other strikers. He is strong, fast and elusive once he gets going.
