Chelsea will lock horns against Aston Villa in the Premier League on Saturday as both teams continue to strive for a place in the top four.
After dominating the first half of the season where they were in the mix for the title race, Chelsea have experienced a major slump over the last couple of months, registering only three wins in their last 10 games across all competitions.
Moreover, the Blues’ morale has taken a big hit after suffering back-to-back defeats against Brighton in the FA Cup and Premier League. In their recent league outing against the Seagulls, the west Londoners failed to record a shot on target.
Enzo Maresca has also come under fire due to the poor run of results, with his future subject to intense speculation. However, reports are stating that the Italian manager has the backing of the Blues’ owners.
Nonetheless, Maresca will be desperate to salvage things and try to lead the Blues to a top-four finish, as they are currently sixth in the table and only one point off the final Champions League place.
They are up against Villa, whose momentum has been hindered after going winless in their last five league games ( 4 Draws and 1 Defeat).
However, the thrilling 2-2 draw against Liverpool midweek will give the Lions much-needed confidence entering into Saturday’s contest.
Team News
Chelsea’s injury woes have piled up of late, with Noni Madueke joining a host of players on the sidelines after suffering a hamstring injury in the defeat against Brighton.
Madueke’s setback depletes the attacking options, with Nicholas Jackson, Marc Guiu and Mykhailo Mudryk also unavailable for selection.
Meanwhile, Benoit Badiashile is currently being assessed as he aims to make a return to the squad from injury.
Predicted Chelsea line-up vs Aston Villa
Goalkeeper
Filip Jorgensen is likely to retain his place as Chelsea’s No.1, though he has endured a difficult time in recent weeks.
Defence
Tosin Adarabioyo should return to the starting XI at the expense of Trevoh Chalobah, with Levi Colwill continuing as the other centre-half.
Reece James is likely to seize the right-back spot from Malo Gusto, while Marc Cucurella will continue as the left-back.
Midfield
The first-choice duo of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo have a lot to prove after going under the pump with their lacklustre performances in Chelsea’s rough patch. They need to step up if the Blues want to keep their top-four aspirations alive.
Chelsea’s ace player Cole Palmer is another one who has experienced a drop in form in recent performances. Regarded as one of the finest youngsters in the Premier League, Palmer will be eager to return to his best.
Attack
Madueke’s injury paves the way for Jadon Sancho, who will occupy the left flank, with Pedro Neto moving to the right. Up top, Christopher Nkunku will be once against tasked with the scoring duties.
