Chelsea vs Everton: Latest team news, predicted lineup and injuries

Chelsea aim to maintain their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League as they welcome Everton to Stamford Bridge in the Premier League on Saturday.

Their recent league performances have been inconsistent, leaving them in a battle to secure a top-five spot and make a return to elite European competition.

Enzo Maresca’s men staged a dramatic late turnaround to beat Fulham 2-1 away from home last weekend.

However, other outcomes around the league mean they remain two points adrift of fifth-placed Newcastle, with five fixtures left to play.

Though they are in the semi-finals of the Conference League, their focus will likely shift toward domestic matters in the coming weeks, with a challenging clash against Everton next on the agenda for the west London outfit.

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In terms of injuries, Chelsea will be lifted by the potential return of Romeo Lavia, who has been sidelined for the last five matches due to injury.

The Belgian midfielder was on the bench in their previous outing and could see his first action since mid-March this weekend.

Malo Gusto suffered a late knock during the Fulham game (Picture: Getty)

Reece James is set to reclaim his position at right-back after being substituted at halftime to manage his workload ahead of a crucial run of games.

There were concerns over his replacement, Malo Gusto, who was forced off late with what appeared to be a muscular issue.

‘Not a good one. Unfortunately, it looks like a muscular injury,’ Maresca said after the match.

Chelsea 4-2-3-1 lineup

Possible Chelsea starting XI (Picture: Metro)

In attack, Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson will be aiming to end their current dry spells in front of goal, with Neto and Noni Madueke expected to support them from the wings.

Meanwhile, Christopher Nkunku may once again miss out, having been left out of the squad last weekend for what Maresca called a ‘technical’ decision.

Additionally, Wesley Fofana, Marc Guiu, and Omari Kellyman are still recovering from long-term issues, and Mykhailo Mudryk remains suspended.

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