December 12th 2024.
Noni Madueke is expected to step in for Pedro Neto in the starting lineup for Chelsea as they gear up to face Brentford in a highly-anticipated west London derby on Sunday at 7pm. This unusual kick-off time was a result of the Blues' Conference League match in Kazakhstan on Thursday, where they secured a 3-1 victory against Astana. In order to give the team ample time to recover, head coach Enzo Maresca made extensive changes to the lineup, granting playing time to reserve players and giving some of the key players a break before the upcoming clash with Brentford.
One notable absence in the lineup will be Pedro Neto, who is serving a suspension after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season in the thrilling 4-3 win over Tottenham. In his place, Noni Madueke will likely make an appearance, ready to make an impact against Thomas Frank's Bees. Another player to watch out for is Cole Palmer, who will return to the starting lineup after being rested midweek. With an impressive record of 11 goals and six assists in just 15 Premier League games, Palmer will be looking to add to his tally and help secure a win for Chelsea.
However, the team will be without the services of defenders Wesley Fofana and Reece James, both sidelined with injuries. It remains to be seen if Maresca will opt for Malo Gusto at right-back or continue with midfielder Moises Caicedo in that position, as he did during the wins against Aston Villa and Tottenham in December. If Gusto is chosen, Caicedo will likely take over in midfield alongside Enzo Fernandez.
Here is the predicted starting lineup for Chelsea against Brentford: Sanchez, Gusto, Badiashile, Colwill, Cucurella, Caicedo, Fernandez, Madueke, Palmer, Sancho, Jackson. Fans looking to catch the game can tune in to the broadcast at 7pm on Sunday, December 15. Unfortunately, this match will not be televised in the UK, much to the disappointment of the Football Supporters' Association. The decision to schedule the game at this time has been met with criticism, as it poses difficulties for match-goers with limited public transport options and families with young children. The Premier League had initially stated that this time slot would only be used as a contingency, but it seems to be utilized frequently despite that.
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