December 26th 2024.
It's a nail-biting week for Chelsea fans as the team gears up for their Boxing Day match against Fulham. The Blues are currently trailing behind Liverpool in the Premier League table and are determined to close the gap with a win. However, their recent game against Everton ended in a disappointing 0-0 draw, marking their first dropped points in six league matches. Despite this setback, Chelsea's unbeaten streak of 12 games in all competitions still stands.
With a short turnaround before their next game, Chelsea may consider making some changes to the lineup, as they did earlier this month for their midweek match against Southampton. But with a tough London derby against Fulham on the horizon, manager Enzo Maresca may have to stick with his tried and tested first-choice players.
Fortunately, one key player will be making a return to the team after serving a suspension. Marc Cucurella, who has been a constant presence on the pitch for Chelsea this season, missed the Everton game due to his recent sending-off against Brentford. His return will provide a much-needed boost to the team, as they aim to secure a win against their local rivals.
This could also mean that Malo Gusto will move back to his preferred right-back position, with Axel Disasi dropping to the bench. The duo of Tosin Adarabioyo and Levi Colwill are expected to continue their partnership at centre-back, as Benoit Badiashille and Wesley Fofana are still recovering from their injuries.
In midfield, Maresca has had to make do without Romeo Lavia, who has been out of action since being substituted at half-time in their match against Tottenham earlier this month. Although Lavia was not included in the squad for the Everton game, he may have a chance to prove his fitness and make an appearance in the match against Fulham.
Meanwhile, Joao Felix, who recently returned from an injury, is likely to start from the bench as Cole Palmer has been performing well in the midfield. Maresca may also consider making changes to the attacking quartet, with Noni Madueke being a potential candidate to start after being benched in their last game.
Reece James, Mykhailo Mudryk, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Ben Chilwell are all expected to be absent from the matchday squad for various reasons. Despite this, Chelsea's predicted starting XI against Fulham is Sanchez in goal, Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, and Cucurella in defense, Caicedo, Fernandez, Madueke, and Palmer in midfield, and Sancho and Jackson leading the attack.
For fans wondering where to catch the game, it will be broadcast live on Amazon Prime in the United Kingdom at 3 pm on December 26th. With both teams hungry for a win, this match promises to be an exciting one to watch.
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