Chelsea will take part in their third West London derby of the season on Saturday, and Enzo Maresca has some big decisions to make when it comes to his attacking lineup.
The boss saw Cole Palmer pull out just minutes before kick-off ahead of the West Ham game, seeing Estevao Willian replace him in the starting line-up.
The Brazil international walked away with the Player of the Match award following his excellent performance, showing that he is more than ready for minutes at the top level.
Palmer’s scan returned positive results, however it was stated that it would be a race against time to be fit to face Fulham on Saturday.
With an international break around the corner, Maresca will want to take no chances making things worse, however will know how his side are consistently better when the England international is on the pitch.
Enzo Maresca smiles after Chelsea vs West Ham
Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS/AFP via Getty Images
Chelsea predicted XI vs Fulham
Here’s The Chelsea Chronicle’s Predicted XI for Chelsea vs Fulham, with the Blues having a chance at temporarily going top of the Premier League.
Despite not impressing in the early stages of the season, Robert Sanchez will retain the trust of his manager and start in goal.
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A cameo appearance for Reece James off the bench against West Ham saw Chelsea’s plan to keep him fit continue to work, and he will be back in the starting side.
Tosin Adarabioyo’s return from injury was welcome on Friday night, and he will maintain his place in the XI to face his former side.
Alongside him will again be Trevoh Chalobah, who opened his account for the season with the fifth goal against West Ham.
At left back, Marc Cucurella will start again, however it is certainly a welcome sight to see Jorrel Hato providing competition for his place.
Moises Caicedo’s brilliant start to the campaign will see him again be one of the first names on the teamsheet for Maresca.
He will be joined in the middle of the park by Enzo Fernandez, who made up for a poor opening game against Crystal Palace with a far better display in East London.
Cole Palmer watches from the bench West Ham against Chelsea in the Premier League after picking up an injury in the warm-up.
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
We are predicting Maresca will err on the side of caution when it comes to Palmer, handing Joao Pedro another start in the number 10 position.
There will be a change of position for Pedro Neto, with his defensive work-rate required on the right to help deal with the attacking threat of Antonee Robinson.
Estevao Willian looks on during West Ham United v Chelsea - Premier League
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
This will see Estevao drop out of the starting line-up, and hand Jamie Gittens the chance to make amends after a poor debut against Palace.
Up front, Liam Delap proved that he is an essential cog in the attack despite not scoring, and he will again start up top.
Chelsea Predicted XI vs Fulham