Chelsea make the short trip across the capital to face West Ham United in a London derby on Saturday lunchtime.
The West Londoners earned a hard-fought win at Bournemouth last time out to continue a largest positive start under new head coach Enzo Maresca. Chelsea have taken seven points from 12 available in the Premier League so far this season, with their sole defeat coming against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge.
At the London Stadium, Maresca could become the first manager since former mentor Pep Guardiola in 2016 to win their first three away games in charge in the Premier League. Chelsea have earned away victories at Wolves and Bournemouth and will be targeting more success on the road this weekend.
Chelsea XI vs West Ham – Predicted lineup and team news
Chelsea team news
Chelsea will again be without a recognised right-back for the trip to West Ham with both Reece James and Malo Gusto sidelined. The former is yet to feature this season due to suspension and a hamstring injury and Maresca confirmed in his pre-match press conference that the Chelsea captain’s recovery is taking longer than expected.
“We’re waiting that he’s fit. His injury’s a bit delayed but the most important thing for him and any injury is that they come back when they’re 100% fit, so Reece is still out.
“We don’t have an idea at the moment [when he’ll be back]. We hope we can find the right solution and have him back as soon as possible.”
Chelsea 24/25. 🔵 pic.twitter.com/jajN41qVH5
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) September 20, 2024
Gusto is also ruled out after suffering a thigh injury against Crystal Palace earlier this month. Axel Disasi could deputise again at right-back.
Enzo Fernandez and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall are expected to make the trip despite illness this week, while Jadon Sancho and Christopher Nkunku are pushing for a place in the starting side. The substitutes combined for the winning goal against Bournemouth last time out, as Sancho marked his debut with an assist for Nkunku. All four of Nkunku’s Premier League goals have come as a substitute, the joint-most a player has ever scored with 100% of their goals coming from the bench.
Chelsea predicted line up
Predicted Chelsea XI (4-3-3): Sanchez; Disasi, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez, Palmer; Madueke, Sancho, Nkunku.
When is West Ham vs Chelsea?
Chelsea travel to face West Ham United at the London Stadium on Saturday 21st September 2024. Kick-off in the capital is 12:30pm BST.
What TV channel is West Ham vs Chelsea on?
The game will be broadcast on TNT Sports.
