Chelsea vs Aston Villa: Confirmed team news, predicted lineup and injuries

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Boss on 2 weeks ago

Cole Palmer is back after not featuring in the Conference League (Picture: Getty)

lock horns with Aston Villa in a clash later today with the Blues hoping to have and available again.

As has become custom, Enzo Maresca made 11 changes to his side for Thursday’s Conference League win over Heidenheim with Noni Madueke and Levi Colwill the only regulars to even make the trip to Germany.

Christoper Nkunku was on the scoresheet again and while Maresca insists he will have opportunities to in the Premier League, the recent form of Nicolas Jackson suggests he will keep his place in the side today.

that saw him miss

Likewise, Gusto picked up a knock that ruled him out of France Under-21 duty, also missing trip the King Power Stadium.

Both players trained normally this week, however, and are expected to be available later today (Sunday, December 1).

‘They will train with us,’ Maresca said ahead of the match. ‘They should both be available [against Villa].’

James facing another spell on the sidelines (Picture: Getty)

but the England international was also back in training this week.

Reece James is facing another spell on the sidelines, however. The Blues captain started three straight games against Liverpool, Newcastle United and Manchester United before coming off the bench against Arsenal but missed out last weekend with a hamstring issue.

Palmer still at his creative best this season ()

with Chelsea taking no risks over fitness.

Jadon Sancho is available again, starting on Thursday night and laying on two assists. But Neto’s fitness could see him remain on the bench with the loan signing from Manchester United having not started a league game since the 2-1 defeat to Liverpool.