This Saturday, Chelsea will host the surprise package Hull City at Stamford Bridge. Xabi Alonso's men currently sit fourth in the league following a narrow defeat to Manchester City (1-2) and a spectacular comeback against Leeds United in the League Cup (6-3).
Hull City, under the stewardship of Sergey Yakirovich, has been the standout performer at the start of the Premier League season. The newly promoted side has racked up seven points, and remarkably, they are the only club in England yet to concede a goal in the league. No Championship team has ever begun a Premier League season with four consecutive clean sheets. However, their away record against Chelsea is dismal, with no wins in 18 encounters across all top four divisions.
As for Chelsea, they will be without Jordan Henderson and Emmanuel Emeka due to injuries. There's also uncertainty regarding the participation of Moises Caicedo and Marco Palestre. On a positive note, Levi Colwill has avoided injury, and the club welcomes back an exciting attacking trio: Morgan Rogers, who recorded four assists in the cup, Cole Palmer, and the August Player of the Month, Joao Pedro. Additionally, Yorrel Hato is set to take his place in defence.
In stark contrast, the visitors arrive with a host of absentees. Six players will miss out: Ilyas Ansa, Jack Butland, Elliot Matzo, Darko Gyabi, Charlie Hughes, and Hidemasa Morita. Decisions on the involvement of Tim Iroegbunam, Brooke Norton-Cuffy, and Paddy McNair will be made just before kick-off.
Likely line-ups:
Chelsea: Martinez; Acheampong, Lacroix, Levi Colwill; Pedro Neto, James, Lavia, Yorrel Hato; Rogers, Palmer; Joao Pedro.
Hull City: Dzalakis; Ajayi, Egan, Mendy; Koyl, Slater, Gurner-Duat, Giles; Bellumi, Stroud; McBurnie.
