Everyone associated with football is focused on Sunday’s exciting English Premier League match between Chelsea and West Ham United as the long weekend draws near.
The game is expected to test tactics and resiliency, particularly for Chelsea, who have been fighting a slew of injuries while still being competitive.
Current form and Injury:
The way Chelsea played against Tottenham recently was simply amazing. They won 2-0 despite missing important players, exhibiting their depth as well as tactical skills.
Still, there were expenses associated with this victory. Injury concerns have dimmed the team’s outlook for their future games.
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Thiago Silva is the primary cause for concern, as his absence was obvious in the previous game. The seasoned defender has thoughts about his post-season options, and it could affect what’s to come with the team.
His expertise and direction are invaluable, and the team’s defence may suffer considerably if he were to go.
Malo Gusto’s position exacerbates the team’s issues. Since the decisive 6-0 victory over Everton in which the youthful star remains sidelined, it is unclear when he will return.
The minor tissue issue in his knee, as the coach put it, is an obstacle for the highly promising player.
For Chelsea admirers, there is some hope amongst these difficulties. Christopher Nkunku as well as Levi Colwill have recovered and might be available for the match this coming weekend.
Their decision to resume practice is uplifting and their accessibility may provide the team with the crucial lift.
The team’s captain, Reece James, is showing improvement as well, which boosts the entire group even more.
Not all of the news, though, is good. A key player in the middle, Enzo Fernandez, is unavailable for the whole campaign after surgery. Along with Raheem Sterling and Chukwuemeka, both have also been added to the injury list, the loss will be noticeable.
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Since these players made major contributions, the team’s success will depend on finding capable substitutes.
However, West Ham is expecting their defence tandem, Konstantinos Mavropanos as well as Nayef Aguerd, to bounce back after sitting out the draw with Liverpool.
Their appearance might strengthen the Hammers’ defence towards Chelsea’s offensive threats and steady the backline.
Predicted Lineups –
The predicted line-ups for both teams suggest a mix of experience and youth, let’s take a look at both team’s predicted lineups –
Chelsea –
Petrovic, Gilchrist, Chalobah, Badiashile, Cucurella, Caicedo, Gallagher, Madueke, Palmer, Mudryk, and Jackson.
West Ham –
Areola, Coufal, Zouma, Ogbonna, Emerson, Soucek, Alvarez, Bowen, Paqueta, Kudus, and Antonio.
The showdown will focus on Chelsea’s injury situation and any openings for West Ham to make use of as the teams get ready for battle.
With both the teams eyeing for the three points that are up for grabs, the game should be exciting.
The tactical fight between manager Mauricio Pochettino with his adversary, who are trying to outsmart each other, is what fans are awaiting.
