Chelsea Face Squad Challenges Ahead of Everton Clash

Chelsea Face Squad Challenges Ahead of Everton Clash

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has a growing list of player availability concerns as the Blues prepare to take on Everton in a crucial Premier League match on Sunday.

Following our 2-1 victory over Brentford, which propelled them to second place in the table, Chelsea will aim to briefly leapfrog Liverpool at the summit with a win at Goodison Park. However, injuries, illnesses, suspensions, and an off-field controversy have left Maresca with selection headaches.

Unavailable Players

1. Carney Chukwuemeka and Ben Chilwell: Both players are sidelined due to illness.
2. Reece James and Wesley Fofana: Dealing with ongoing injury issues.
3. Benoît Badiashile: A fresh fitness concern arose during training, ruling him out.
4. Marc Cucurella: Suspended after receiving a red card following the Brentford match.
5. Mykhailo Mudryk: Provisionally suspended following a positive drugs test by the FA. Mudryk denies knowingly taking any banned substances, but his absence adds to Chelsea’s woes.

Reinforcements Return

Amid the setbacks, there’s good news for Chelsea. Maresca confirmed that João Félix and Romeo Lavia are fit to return to action, while Pedro Neto, who missed the Brentford match due to suspension, is available again.

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Europa Conference League ‘Dead Rubber’

Before facing Everton, Chelsea have a Europa Conference League game against Shamrock Rovers. With their position in the competition already secured, Maresca may use the opportunity to rest key players and manage squad fitness ahead of the weekend’s league action.

Also, read: Chelsea Comeback Seals Top Spot in Women Champions League Group: Real Madrid 1-2 Chelsea

The Stakes at Goodison Park

Chelsea’s trip to Everton could be pivotal in the title race. Currently trailing Liverpool by just two points, the Blues could claim top spot temporarily with a victory, applying pressure on the league leaders. However, managing such a depleted squad will require tactical adjustments and depth from Maresca’s side.

Stay tuned for updates as Chelsea look to overcome these challenges and maintain their impressive Premier League form.

Chelsea Face Squad Challenges Ahead of Everton Clash