There’s nothing we like more than predicting lineups. No matter who Chelsea are facing, the manager always has conflicting short and long term priorities, and it’s fascinating to see how they balance them.
The Blues come off a bruising midweek defeat to Arsenal and have what is potentially an easy game against Wolves. But Liam Rosenior won’t be allowing his team to take it lightly at all, and will want to pick the strongest team he can.
Chelsea’s likely team to take on Wolves
Trevoh Chalobah battles for possession against Arsenal.
Trevoh Chalobah battles for possession against Arsenal. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
That means Robert Sanchez in goal. Reece James missed the midweek game, and assuming he’s recovered from his mystery “knock,” should start today. Trevoh Chalobah will play, but given Wesley Fofana did 90 minutes on Tuesday, we can only assume he’s out and Benoit Badiashile will come in. Marc Cucurella is likely to soldier on at left back.
In midfield, things get interesting. We reckon Rosenior will be keen to keep his Moises Caicedo and Andrey Santos double pivot going. That means Enzo Fernandez pushed forward to the number 10, and Cole Palmer, apparently fit to play 90 minutes, pushed wide right.
That then squeezes out Estevao, but Pedro Neto is able to play on the left and should be fresh. Joao Pedro should lead the line, given the form he’s in.
In other news…
In his press conference, Liam Rosenior bigged up Andrey Santos – although that’s far easier to do given he’s in much better form at the moment. He’s gradually turning into one of the big winners from this season for Chelsea.
An Athletic story about Enzo Fernandez showed how he’s on track to match a record set by Frank Lampard and Mason Mount in recent years, showing how much he’s improved and become a key figure for the team on and off the pitch.
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Liam Rosenior with his players at full time.
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Mamadou Sarr signs for Chelsea.