Chelsea will be desperate to return to winning ways in the Premier League when they host Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.
The Blues have slipped up considerably in recent games, dropping to fourth in the table after failing to win four consecutive Premier League games. They are now just a point above fifth-place Newcastle United after the completion of 20 games.
However, Enzo Maresca’s side tasted victory in the FA Cup third round last weekend, beating Morecambe 5-0 at home. This should give the Italian tactician’s side some confidence heading into the game against Bournemouth, who are on a nine-game unbeaten run across all competitions and thrashed West Brom 5-1 in the FA Cup third round.
Chelsea Team News
Chelsea have received an injury boost ahead of the Bournemouth clash with Enzo Maresca confirming that Noni Madueke has returned to training after missing the Morecambe game due to illness.
Reece James and Romeo Lavia made their comebacks from injury against Morecambe with both playing 45 minutes.
Predicted Chelsea lineup vs Bournemouth (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
Robert Sanchez should return to the team, replacing Filip Jorgensen in goal from the FA Cup tie. The Spaniard has had an up-and-down season, so he will be hoping to produce a consistent performance and keep a clean sheet.
Defence
Tosin Adarabioyo should reprise his role in defence, and after scoring a brace against Morecambe, he will be confident of fancying his chances on Tuesday. The Nigerian is expected to partner Levi Colwill, who was an unused substitute at the weekend.
Malo Gusto and Marc Cucurella should start as the full-backs, replacing Reece James and Renato Veiga in the first XI from the last game. They will be trying to make an impact at both ends of the pitch, but most importantly help the Blues in keeping a clean sheet.
Midfield
There is no looking past the double pivot of Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez in midfield. The South American duo have to be at their best to dictate the tempo of play against an aggressive, high-pressing Bournemouth side. Romeo Lavia, after returning from injury at the weekend, should also be an option.
Cole Palmer is Chelsea’s creator-in-chief, so the onus will be on him to unlock the Bournemouth backline. The England international should be fresh for this fixture after being an unused substitute in the FA Cup tie.
Attack
Pedro Neto is expected to retain his spot in attack for the home side. Jadon Sancho came off the bench against Morecambe but Maresca should recall him in the starting XI. If that is the case, the Englishman will start on the left flank.
Leading the Chelsea attack should be Nicolas Jackson, who will be aiming to add to his tally of nine league goals this season. Noni Madueke, Joao Felix and Christopher Nkunku are excellent attacking options to bring off the bench for Maresca.
