Mauricio Pochettino gave Chelsea fans some pretty unwanted news yesterday as he underwent his pre-match press conference.
He revealed that Cole Palmer was suffering with illness, and was a doubt for the big game against Arsenal today.
However, it feels as if the boss is prepared to risk it with anyone at this stage it would be the 21-year-old, with European football still a possibility out of this season.
Here’s The Chelsea Chronicle’s predicted XI to face the Gunners.
Chelsea predicted XI
Djordje Petrovic could do very little about the goal conceded against Manchester City, and will keep his place in the side as a result.
Malo Gusto’s injury woes have continued, and the boss will look to start Axel Disasi out of position at right-back.
One positive from Wembley was the performance of Trevoh Chalobah at the back, and he will continue in the side.
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He will be joined by Thiago Silva, who is of course expected to be entering his final few games of his Chelsea career.
At left-back, Marc Cucurella will keep his place in the side.
Midfield
Moises Caicedo will continue as an important member of the midfield, facing a team there was a realistic chance he signed for last summer.
He will be joined by Conor Gallagher, with the duo performing very well together last time out in the Premier League.
Ahead of those two, it will be a rare start for Carney Chukwuemeka, meaning Palmer is not risked for the Blues after his bout of illness.
Attack
Raheem Sterling has a huge opportunity to show supporters he should have a future here, and will start tomorrow against Arsenal.
The opposite flank will be held by Noni Madueke, despite his recent questionable moments revolving around games.
Up front, Nicolas Jackson will again be trusted with the start despite his poor performance in front of goal in the FA Cup semi-final.
