Chelsea Aim to Deepen Crystal Palace's Woes in Premier League Clash
Chelsea make the short journey to Selhurst Park this afternoon, seeking to capitalise on the turmoil engulfing Crystal Palace. The Eagles are enduring a dismal period, having been eliminated from the FA Cup and facing significant off-field instability. Manager Oliver Glasner has confirmed his impending departure at the season's end, while star defender Marc Guehi has already completed a move to Manchester City.
Palace Team News: Mateta Saga and Returning Stars
The week brought further disruption for Palace, with widespread reports suggesting striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has requested a transfer. Glasner moved to quash these rumours on Friday, insisting no formal transfer request has been submitted and confirming Mateta is available for selection today.
There is some positive news for the home side. Winger Ismailia Sarr is back in London following Senegal's triumphant AFCON campaign and is in contention to start. Defender Daniel Munoz has also recovered from a knee issue that will eventually require surgery and is likely to feature.
Chelsea Team News: Palmer's Expected Return and Injury Concerns
Chelsea's key concern revolves around the fitness of playmaker Cole Palmer. The England international, a mainstay in the last eight league games, missed the midweek Champions League victory over Pafos due to a thigh complaint. However, after participating fully in training on Friday, he is strongly expected to reclaim his place in the starting eleven.
The Blues' injury list includes defender Tosin Adarabioyo, who was forced off against Brentford last weekend, alongside long-term absentees Romeo Lavia and Levi Colwill. There was a setback for young midfielder Dario Essugo, whose return from a thigh injury has been delayed by a training ground slip.
In attack, Liam Delap led the line in Europe, but Joao Pedro—who scored against Brentford—is anticipated to return to spearhead the Chelsea attack today.
Predicted Chelsea Lineup
Despite a crucial Champions League tie against Napoli on the horizon, manager Liam Rosenior is expected to field a strong side against a Palace team winless in ten matches. Key midfielders Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, along with winger Pedro Neto, all played the full ninety minutes against Pafos but are likely to be called upon again for this vital Premier League fixture.
How to Watch: TV Channel and Kick-Off Time
The Premier League encounter between Crystal Palace and Chelsea kicks off today, Saturday 25th January, at 2:00 PM. The match will be broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event. Subscribers can also stream the action via the Sky Go app or through a NOW TV membership.
