Chelsea lineup vs. Arsenal: Predicted XI for Premier League London derby as Cole Palmer decision revealed
Chelsea playmaker Cole Palmer is finally fit to return for the Blues, against none other than Premier League leaders Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon.
The former Manchester City product has not played since September 20 due to a combination of groin and toe injuries, but Enzo Maresca revealed during his pre-match press conference that Palmer is not only fit again, but ready to start.
The England international has only made four appearances this season – and none for just over two months – so a place on the bench is much more likely while he restores match fitness.
With Palmer absent against Barcelona in midweek, Enzo Fernandez functioned as the more advanced midfielder with Pedro Neto, Estevao Willian and Alejandro Garnacho exposing the Blaugrana high line in a 3-0 aggregate victory.
Maresca’s tactic worked wonderfully on Tuesday, but against a robust Arsenal side who will employ no such methods, this match is surely made for a Liam Delap.
The former Ipswich Town man and Joao Pedro are both likely to return to the final third, where Estevao has surely done enough to also retain his place alongside Neto.
Fernandez would therefore move back to reform the £200m double pivot with Moises Caicedo, allowing captain Reece James to return to his familiar right-back role as Malo Gusto leaves the side.
Wesley Fofana’s ongoing fitness concerns could also lead to the recall of Tosin Adarabioyo, who has implemented a performance worthy of the team of the week during last weekend 2-0 victory over Burnley.
Possible starting XI for Chelsea:
Sanchez; James, Adarabioyo, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Estévao, Pedro, Neto; Délap
> Click here to see how Arsenal could line up for this match