Chelsea return to Premier League action after an EFL Cup exit at the hands of Tottenham Hotspur via a penalty shootout. They are on a 3-game winless streak in all competitions as they failed to win their last two league games against Liverpool and West Brom respectively.
Crystal Palace are off a loss of their own after Everton managed to nick a win in the last league game. Frank Lampard will be hoping to turn things around and stem this flow of losses on Saturday.
The Blues will have three notable absentees. Billy Gilmour is not expected to be back until November. Wingers Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech might have to sit this one out so as to not aggravate their injuries. Other than that, Frank Lampard will have quite some options up his sleeve.
The new goalkeeper started in the EFL Cup and is widely expected to replace Kepa in the long-term.
Reece James sat out the last game but will resume his duties at right-back ahead of Cesar Azpilicueta.
The veteran defender did not have the best of starts to his Chelsea career as the side shipped 3 goals. He will be expected to provide some much-needed solidity and leadership.
Andreas Christensen had a sub-par game last time around, so Kurt Zouma takes his place.
The new signing looks well set to keep his place in the side in the long run. Will be hoping to complete the full 90 minutes this time.
Kante has been linked with an exit this transfer window (source – Express). He starts this game nonetheless.
Looked quite comfortable in the deeper role against Spurs. Chelsea will need him to dictate the play again, this time against Crystal Palace.
Might have missed the only spot-kick in the shootout but still remains vital to Lampard’s side.
Havertz missed out on the Tottenham game but is in line to make a return to the starting XI.
Confidence will be high after his first goal for the club and will hope to build on that performance.
Hudson-Odoi showed his importance to the club last weekend with a crucial goal. He should continue in the absence of Pulisic.
