January 8th 2025.
There is excitement and anticipation building at Chelsea as they prepare to take on League Two side Morecambe in the FA Cup third round this Saturday. The Blues are looking to end their four-game winless streak and regain their form after a disappointing run in the festive period.
Under the guidance of new manager Enzo Maresca, Chelsea made a sensational start to the season and were even considered as potential challengers for the Premier League title. However, recent losses to Fulham and Ipswich Town have seen them drop down to fourth place in the league, ten points behind leaders Liverpool.
Despite a draw with Crystal Palace last weekend, Maresca's side are determined to bounce back and get back on track in their first match of the FA Cup this year. They are facing a struggling Morecambe team, currently sitting second bottom in League Two, and are expected to rotate their squad and give some minutes to their fringe players.
One player in particular who could benefit from this rotation is Reece James, who has been sidelined since November due to a hamstring injury. The club captain has been an unused substitute in the last two league games but could finally make his long-awaited return to the pitch this weekend.
In defense, the impressive Josh Acheampong is likely to continue at centre-back after his standout performance against Palace. Renato Veiga and Axel Disasi may also get some playing time, while Benoit Badisahille and Wesley Fofana remain out with injuries.
In midfield, fans are eagerly anticipating the return of Romeo Lavia, who has been out for the last five league games due to a hamstring injury. Maresca hinted that the 21-year-old could be involved in the upcoming match, which will be a welcome sight for Chelsea supporters.
As for new signings Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Omari Kellyman, they are not expected to feature in this game, but Cesare Casadei could potentially make a rare start as he continues to be linked with a loan move in January.
Up front, Tyrique George and Marc Guiu, who both started in Chelsea's last Conference League game, could be given more opportunities to showcase their skills as Maresca looks to rest his first-choice forwards for the midweek clash with Bournemouth.
The predicted starting XI for Chelsea against Morecambe includes Jorgensen, Disasi, Acheampong, Tosin, Veiga, Casadei, Lavia, Madueke, Nkunku, George, and Guiu. Fans are eager to see how this lineup will perform and if they can secure a win for their team.
For those wondering where to catch the game, it kicks off at 3pm GMT on Saturday, January 11. However, unfortunately, viewers in the UK will not have access to a live stream or TV coverage as the match was not selected for broadcasting.
All in all, it will be an exciting and eagerly anticipated game as Chelsea look to get back on track and advance in the FA Cup. Fans are hoping for a strong performance from their team and a win to boost their morale and confidence moving forward.
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