Chelsea will go into Christmas in the top four of the Premier League following their 2-2 draw with Newcastle United at St. James’ Park.
Enzo Maresca’s side showed plenty of spirit in the second half to fight back from two goals down, even if it did leave them without a manager for the next game.
Maresca was suspended after picking up his third yellow card of the season, and Chelsea are set to be charged by the FA after getting too many cautions.
Chelsea’s previous five meetings against Aston Villa
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Chelsea's previous five results vs Aston Villa
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While the Italian will not be in charge, he will make decisions over who will start the game, and there are certainly some changes that need to be made following the draw against Newcastle.
The Chelsea Chronicle have outlined three changes that need to be made for their clash with Aston Villa next week.
Chelsea v Arsenal - Premier League
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Three changes Chelsea must make before facing Aston Villa
Estevao Willian returns to the starting side
A minor injury has kept Estevao Willian out of action in the last couple of games, including an EFL Cup tie against Cardiff which he would have been a shoo-in to start.
Estevao was clearly upset to be snubbed on the bench during the game against Atalanta, and Maresca’s decision to protect him can only benefit the Blues for so long.
Chelsea fans are lifted out of their seats whenever the Brazil international gets on the ball, and pairing him in attack with Cole Palmer will get Stamford Bridge rocking against Villa.
Enzo Fernandez smiles during Chelsea v Arsenal - Premier League
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Enzo Fernandez reclaims his place in the XI
It was a surprise to see Enzo Fernandez named on the bench for Chelsea’s trip to St. James’ Park, however it wasn’t long after half-time before he was introduced to the fray.
The Argentine has looked as if he needed a rest in recent weeks, however has remained a goal threat in his second season under Maresca.
Reece James has been a star in the middle of the park of late, however we are predicting they are going to change that due to the opposition they are facing.
Reece James returns to right-back
More than a week’s break will be welcome for James, who has been one of Chelsea’s star players since he has become a regular in the side again.
The captain steps up 💪
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Reece James celebrates Chelsea goal
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His recent performances have seen him in the middle of the park, but we are predicting he will move to right-back in order to deal with Morgan Rogers.
The winger was strongly linked with a move to Stamford Bridge over the summer, and is now one of the standout players in the league at the moment.
James is Chelsea’s best defensive full-back, and should be tasked with taking on his international teammate on Saturday.
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