Chelsea Set to Unleash Delap Again as Star Palmer Ruled Out for Fulham Clash
Chelsea make their return to Premier League competition this Saturday as they host cross-town rivals Fulham at Stamford Bridge.
Following a disappointing opening match against Crystal Palace to begin the season, Chelsea claimed their inaugural victory of the campaign versus West Ham United in their previous outing with an emphatic 5–1 triumph. A superb offensive display combined with poor defensive work from the Hammers allowed them to cruise to maximum points.
The Blues will look to maintain their momentum upon returning to their home ground, though they need to exercise caution against Fulham. This matchup saw Chelsea suffer a 2–1 defeat last season at home following a remarkable late comeback by the Cottagers.
Here's how Chelsea might set up at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs. Fulham (4-2-3-1)
GK: Robert Sánchez—Sánchez faced criticism for his inability to stop Lucas Paquetá's powerful shot at London Stadium—possibly an unfair judgment considering the force behind the effort. However, the Spanish keeper still lacks commanding presence in goal.
RB: Reece James—Enzo Maresca has wisely managed James' playing time after multiple seasons plagued by injuries. Malo Gusto featured against West Ham but may now be rested.
CB: Trevoh Chalobah—Chalobah netted Chelsea's fifth strike against West Ham and seems to be Maresca's preferred center-back choice following Levi Colwill's ACL injury.
CB: Tosin Adarabioyo—Wesley Fofana and Jorrel Hato are pushing for inclusion but might have to wait until Tosin gives reason for replacement.
LB: Marc Cucurella—The Spanish defender recorded his first goal involvement this season against West Ham, providing a clever flick at the front post from a corner that assisted João Pedro's maiden Premier League strike in Chelsea colors.
DM: Moisés Caicedo—Caicedo also found the net against West Ham, reacting quickly to score from a corner after Mads Hermansen's mistake. He'll face a more challenging defensive test versus Fulham.
DM: Enzo Fernández—Fernández matched his midfield partner by getting on the scoresheet, applying the final touch to a well-worked move. The Argentine excels as a complete midfielder and will seek another goal on Saturday.
RW: Estêvão—The young Brazilian established a new Chelsea milestone against West Ham while earning man of the match honors. One can only expect continued improvement from him.
AM: João Pedro—Pedro delivered one goal and two assists operating behind Liam Delap, stepping in for the sidelined Cole Palmer. The Brazilian will again function as a number 10 after Enzo Maresca confirmed Palmer's unavailability for the Cottagers clash.
LW: Pedro Neto—Neto netted a 93rd-minute decisive goal in this fixture at Craven Cottage last term and has already found the back of the net this campaign.
ST: Liam Delap—Delap benefited from Palmer's injury and another starting opportunity will sharpen his focus on netting his first Premier League goal for Chelsea.
