- Chelsea seek to end a four-game winless streak in the league.
- Reece James and Romeo Lavia returned to action in the FA Cup.
- Noni Madueke remains doubtful due to illness.
Chelsea fans have endured a rollercoaster season, with plenty of highs and frustrating lows. While emphatic wins have provided joy, even the scrappiest of victories against Bournemouth on Tuesday night would suffice to lift spirits.
The Blues enter this midweek clash on the back of a tough Premier League run, having failed to win their last four games. Although a convincing 5-0 FA Cup victory over Morecambe brought some relief, anything less than three points against Bournemouth could see the frustration resurface.
Manager Enzo Maresca rotated heavily for Saturday’s cup tie, but with Bournemouth posing a tougher challenge, a revamped lineup is expected. Here’s how Chelsea could take to the field:
Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs Bournemouth (4-2-3-1)
- GK: Robert Sanchez
Despite Filip Jorgensen’s clean sheet over the weekend, Sanchez remains Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper and will reclaim his spot between the posts. - RB: Malo Gusto
While Reece James returned to action on Saturday, Maresca will likely manage his minutes carefully. Gusto, who has been a reliable deputy, is expected to start. - CB: Tosin Adarabioyo
Adarabioyo impressed with a rare brace against Morecambe and has shown his quality filling in for Wesley Fofana. His presence brings stability to the defence. - CB: Levi Colwill
A cornerstone of Chelsea’s backline, Colwill’s consistent performances and heavy minutes this season make him an automatic pick for the league fixtures. - LB: Marc Cucurella
Maresca’s trust in Cucurella remains evident, with the Spaniard firmly holding his position on the left flank. - CM: Moises Caicedo
Chelsea’s most-used player this season, Caicedo’s defensive midfield presence is invaluable. His energy and ball-winning ability will be key against Bournemouth. - CM: Enzo Fernandez
Fernandez will likely partner Caicedo as Romeo Lavia is gradually reintroduced from his injury layoff. The pair form Chelsea’s most balanced midfield duo. - RM: Pedro Neto
Neto’s recent performances may earn him another start, especially with Madueke still recovering from illness. His directness and pace will be an asset on the right. - AM: Cole Palmer
With 19 goal contributions in 20 games, Palmer has emerged as one of Chelsea’s most reliable creators. His vision and technical prowess will be pivotal in unlocking Bournemouth’s defence. - LM: Jadon Sancho
Sancho has established himself as Maresca’s preferred option on the left. However, he’ll need to improve his output to win over the Chelsea faithful fully. - ST: Nicolas Jackson
Jackson is in desperate need of a confidence-boosting performance after a tough month. Fresh from being rested in the FA Cup, the striker will look to rediscover his scoring touch.
Key Points to Watch
- Reece James and Romeo Lavia: Both made their returns at the weekend but are likely to feature as substitutes to avoid risking further injuries.
- Attacking Efficiency: Chelsea’s creativity hasn’t been matched by finishing prowess. Tuesday could be a crucial game for players like Jackson and Sancho to step up.
- Defensive Solidity: With Bournemouth expected to counterattack, maintaining focus at the back will be vital.