Chelsea look to continue their impressive form at home to Nottingham Forest as they return to Premier League duty later today.
Enzo Maresca made a number of changes to his side for Thursday’s Europa Conference League meeting with Gent but is expected to return to a more regular starting XI.
Cole Palmer, Wesley Fofana and Romeo Lavia were all omitted from the European squad with the latter making his return off the bench last weekend in the win over Brighton after a recent hamstring issue.
Noni Madueke and Jadon Sancho have emerged as Maresca’s first-choice wide options in recent weeks and will be expected to retain their places after also being rested midweek.
Reece James, meanwhile, has hinted he is edging ever closer to making his return after another hamstring problem delayed his start to the season.
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Maresca, however, will not take any risks over his captain’s return to the side with Malo Gusto starting the season well at right-back.
The Blues have an otherwise clean bill of health as they seek to keep pace with Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City at the top of the table.
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Speaking on Friday, Maresca said: ‘[There are not] any updates. The only one is Reece James, who is still out. The rest are available.’
Predicted Chelsea XI to face Nottingham Forest
Sanchez, Gusto, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella, Caicedo, Fernandez, Madueke, Palmer, Sancho, Jackson
Where to watch Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest? Kick-off time and TV channel
Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest kicks off at 2pm on Sunday, October 6.
The game will not be shown live in the UK with Sky Sports instead deciding to televise Manchester United’s clash with Aston Villa, which kicks off at the same time.
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