Chelsea XI vs Shamrock Rovers: Team News, Predicted Lineup, and Injury Updates

Chelsea XI vs Shamrock Rovers: Team News, Predicted Lineup, and Injury Updates

Chelsea gear up for their final group-stage match of the Conference League tonight against Shamrock Rovers at Stamford Bridge, with manager Enzo Maresca expected to rotate heavily as his side has already secured qualification for the last 16.

Mudryk Suspended

Key winger Mykhailo Mudryk will miss the match after being provisionally suspended due to testing positive for a banned substance.

While Mudryk insists he has never knowingly taken such substances and is awaiting the results of a ‘B’ sample, his absence will be felt, particularly as he has started every Conference League group game so far.

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Young Talent in the Spotlight

The rotation presents a prime opportunity for Chelsea’s academy prospects. Josh Acheampong, who signed a new long-term contract on Wednesday, is expected to start at right-back. Meanwhile, Tyrique George could feature off the bench, offering fans another glimpse of Chelsea’s promising future.

Key Returns and Suspensions

Midfielder Cesare Casadei is back in contention after serving a suspension against Astana. However, Marc Cucurella, suspended for Sunday’s Premier League clash with Everton, might still be rested tonight.

Injury List

Chelsea remain without several key players:

• Reece James (hamstring)
• Wesley Fofana (knee)
• Benoit Badiashile (fitness issues)

There are also doubts over Joao Felix, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Ben Chilwell, with their involvement likely to be limited.

Predicted Chelsea XI

Formation: 4-2-3-1

• Goalkeeper: Jorgensen
• Defenders: Acheampong, Tosin, Disasi, Veiga
• Midfield: Casadei, Dewsbury-Hall
• Attack: Neto, Nkunku, Felix
• Striker: Guiu

Match Details

• Kick-off: 8 PM GMT, Thursday, December 19, 2024
• Venue: Stamford Bridge, London
• TV Channel: TNT Sports

With Chelsea’s focus already shifting to the Premier League, this match offers a chance to see fringe and younger players showcase their abilities on the European stage.

Chelsea XI vs Shamrock Rovers: Team News, Predicted Lineup, and Injury Updates