New Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior will be hoping for a better result against Crystal Palace than his predecessor managed in the first game of the Premier League season.
Enzo Maresca’s campaign got underway with a 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge, with the Blues unable to show any real threat in front of goal.
It would end up being the last league game of 2025 Cole Palmer would feature for 90 minutes, with a groin injury plaguing his first half of the current campaign.
No wins against Palace since Mauricio Pochettino was in charge…
Is Liam Rosenior the man to turn this run of draws into a win?
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Chelsea’s previous 0-0 draw could actually have been worse if Eberechi Eze’s free-kick had stood after he smashed it past Robert Sanchez.
Chelsea v Crystal Palace - Premier League
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Darren England appointed referee for Chelsea vs Crystal Palace despite previous controversy
It was adjudged that Palace had a player too close to the defensive wall, and that was why referee Darren England decided to disallow the goal after help from VAR.
Despite the controversy that surrounded this situation, the Premier League have announced that England will again be in charge of the two sides facing off at Selhurst Park.
Scott Ledger and Akil Howson will be the assistants on Sunday, while Matt Donohue will be tasked with VAR duties for the game.
Finish our Predicted XI!
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Chelsea’s record with Darren England as referee
In five Premier League games with England in charge, Chelsea have won just once. This came with a 6-2 victory against Wolves in August 2024.
Elsewhere, they have dropped points against the likes of Everton and Burnley, despite their latter opponents being reduced to 10 men in that game.
The most recent Chelsea game England has refereed saw them defeated by Leeds at Elland Road back in December, proving to be one of the final games of Maresca’s reign.
Decisions of officials have not dominated Rosenior’s first few games in charge, and the hope will be that pattern continues at Selhurst Park on Sunday.
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