Callum Hudson-Odoi is named on the starting team sheet for Chelsea with Thomas Tuchel ringing in major changes to his XI for the trip to Villa Park.
Hudson-Odoi had been a COVID-19 concern of late but is now back in the fold and finds himself starting in the final third in a must-win game for the Blues.
Star names return to the defensive lineup
Edouard Mendy returns to manning the goalposts after being benched for the cup win over Brentford last week where Kepa had provided cover.
Antonio Rudiger and Thiago Silva also are issued recalls to the starting lineup for the visitors with Trevoh Chalobah retaining his berth in the heart of the defence.
Pulisic leads the line for Chelsea
N’Golo Kante partners Jorginho in the centre of the park with Reece James and Marcos Alonso slotting in at the wing-back roles on either flank.
Chrisitan Pulisic operates as the focal striker with Tuchel now able to call upon the services of his summer signing Romelu Lukaku who features on the bench.
Here is how both teams line up for today’s Premier League fixture:
Aston Villa FC XI
This is your final Aston Villa starting XI of 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟭. 💪 #AVLCHE pic.twitter.com/dH9CJp8lp5
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) December 26, 2021
Chelsea FC XI
Your festive Chels! 🎄@ParimatchGlobal | #AvlChe pic.twitter.com/6Kop9V3pgR
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 26, 2021
