December 18th 2024.
Marc Cucurella is facing a one-match suspension for Sunday's highly-anticipated match against Everton. It's a crucial game for Chelsea, who have the opportunity to move to the top of the Premier League standings with a win. Enzo Maresca's team has been on an impressive run, securing five consecutive league victories and narrowing the gap between themselves and Liverpool at the top. With the Reds dropping points against Fulham last weekend, Chelsea are now just a few points away from the summit and will have the chance to play before Arne Slot's side on Sunday.
Before they can focus on the Everton match, Chelsea first have to navigate their final Conference League game against Shamrock Rovers on Thursday. However, Maresca is expected to make some changes to his lineup, with their spot in the knockout stage already secured. But there will be at least one enforced change, as Marc Cucurella received a red card in their last game against Brentford. The Spaniard, who scored the team's first goal at Stamford Bridge, was shown a second yellow card after an altercation following the final whistle. As a result, he will have to serve a one-match suspension and will be replaced by summer signing Renato Veiga, who has been impressive in cup competitions.
There is also good news for Chelsea as Romeo Lavia and Joao Felix are expected to return to the starting lineup after missing the team's last two games. Maresca confirmed their availability, saying, "We had Joao and Romeo that probably can be available for the next one." Additionally, Pedro Neto will be back on the team after serving his suspension, but he may have to settle for a spot on the bench due to the stellar performances of Jadon Sancho and Noni Madueke.
Looking at the predicted starting lineup against Everton, it's likely that Tosin Adarabioyo will continue to play at centre-back, with Benoit Badiashille and Wesley Fofana still recovering from their injuries. Fofana has been out since injuring his hamstring in the match against Aston Villa in early December, while Badiashille picked up an unknown injury during training last weekend. Maresca shared, "Benoit had a problem yesterday during the session. For now, we do not know how long he will be out for." Unfortunately, Maresca will also be without Mykhailo Mudryk, who has been provisionally suspended following a failed drugs test. The Ukrainian has missed the team's last five games due to illness, but until a full investigation is carried out, he is not allowed to train with the team. If found guilty, he could face a lengthy ban.
The predicted starting lineup for Chelsea against Everton includes Sanchez, Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Veiga, Caicedo, Fernandez, Madueke, Palmer, Sancho, and Jackson. Fans are eagerly anticipating this match, but unfortunately, it will not be broadcast live in the UK. The kick-off time is set for 2pm on Sunday, December 22. With everything on the line, it's sure to be an intense and exciting game between these two top teams.
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