Brentfordvs.Chelsea

The Blues have tried to adopt a cautious approach with James since he returned from injury in January, managing his number of starts in a bid to avoid any setbacks.

Maresca opted to use Malo Gusto as his right-back for Thursday's 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur, leaving James to settle for a late substitute appearance.

However, James should now come into the side to feature on the right side of the back four, while Marc Cucurella will continue to marshal the left side of defence.

Trevoh Chalobah was part of the backline that kept a clean sheet against Spurs, and he could be rewarded by retaining his place in the centre of defence alongside Levi Colwill.

In goal, Robert Sanchez will keep his place in between the posts despite the continuous question marks about whether he has the consistency required to be Chelsea's long-term number one.

There is no doubt surrounding the make-up of Chelsea's midfield, with Fernandez set to continue his partnership with Moises Caicedo.

Noni Madueke is pushing for a starting spot after returning from a six-game injury absence to feature as a substitute against Spurs.

Madueke would operate off the right flank if he is given the nod, meaning Pedro Neto would have to move to the left and Jadon Sancho would drop down to the bench.

Cole Palmer will continue to offer one of Chelsea's main attacking threats from the number 10 position, while Nicolas Jackson should keep his place after playing over 80 minutes in his first game back from injury.

Chelsea possible starting lineup: Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Madueke, Palmer, Neto; Jackson

Written by

Ben Sully