Chelsea will entertain Brighton and Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge on Saturday hoping to build on their 7-1 win over Grimsby Town in the EFL Cup. The Pensioners are yet to secure a victory at home in the Premier League this season. Therefore, this clash against the Seagulls could be their ideal opportunity to get a win on the board in front of their home supporters.
Frank Lampard will likely opt for a 4-3-3 formation for this weekend’s encounter against the East Sussex outfit.
4-3-3 Chelsea Predicted Lineup To Face Brighton And Hove
Defence
Kepa Arrizabalaga will resume his goalkeeping duties for the West London giants this weekend after being rested during the 7-1 win over Grimsby Town in midweek. The defensive pair of Fikalyo Tomori and Kurt Zouma will operate at the centre of the Pensioners backline. The defensive pair will need to keep things tidy at the back if they are to secure a shutout versus the Seagulls this weekend.
Cesar Azpilicueta will be the Chelsea captain as he takes his place at right-back. Marcos Alonso will continue to feature at the left-back position in the absence of the injured Emerson Palmieri. Fikayo Tomori will have to settle for a spot on Lampard’s bench on Sunday and might come on during the encounter if needed. Both Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger are major doubts and are unlikely to participate in this encounter against Graham Potter’s men.
Midfield
Lampard’s midfield will be comprised of Jorginho, Mateo Kovacic and N’Golo Kante as the hardworking trio focuses on establishing Chelsea’s dominance at the middle of the park. Kante managed to score against Liverpool last weekend which will give him a lot of confidence heading into this clash at the Bridge. All three Chelsea midfielders will need to be more creative with their passing in the opposition half if they want to break down the Brighton defence on Saturday.
Ross Barkley will have to settle for a spot on Lampard’s bench but might get a chance to make an impact if required.
Attack
Tammy Abraham will lead the charge for the Pensioners up front. Mason Mount and Willian will support the former Swansea City striker as they try to provide width out on the flanks. Both Christian Pulisic and Michy Batshuayi will be part of the Chelsea bench and might come on to influence the game if needed.
