Nathaniel Chalobah is handed a surprise start for Chelsea in the club’s opening game of the 2021-22 Premier League season which comes against Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues, on the back of a narrow win over Villareal in the Super Cup during the midweek tie, will be looking to claim all three points from the home outing.
Changes in the wing-back roles for the hosts
Chalobah’s selection comes amid the 26-year-old impressing for Thomas Tuchel’s side in the pre-season fixtures as he is handed a spot in the right wing-back role with Reece James on the bench.
Another surprise inclusion is that of Marcos Alonso who starts out wide in the left wing-back role ahead of Ben Chilwell who features amongst the substitutes.
Werner starts as Kai Havertz is benched
Timo Werner leads the line for Chelsea with new signing Romele Lukaku unavailable for selection upon his return to the Bridge in a big-money move from Inter Milan.
Tuchel also decides to start Christian Pulisic in the wide role with Kai Havertz, despite an impressive finish to his debut Chelsea campaign last season, benched for the opening day fixture.
Here is how both teams line up for today’s Premier League fixture:
Chelsea FC XI
Here’s your Chelsea team news today! 🔵#CHECRY ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/MDLpKIUfO4
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 14, 2021
Crystal Palace FC XI
For the first time this season…
COME ON YOU PALACE#CPFC | #CHECRY
— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) August 14, 2021
