By Sunday Ameh
Chelsea will on Saturday lock horns with Premier League leaders Liverpool at Stamford Bridge in a high-profile clash overshadowed by an injury crisis that has rocked Enzo Maresca’s squad.
The Blues, who secured a 3–1 victory in their last home encounter with Liverpool, are set to be without at least eight first-team players for the game, raising concerns over their defensive and midfield strength.
Central defenders Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana and Tosin Adarabioyo have all been ruled out, while Trevoh Chalobah is unavailable due to suspension. Their absence leaves 19-year-olds Josh Acheampong and Jorrel Hato as likely candidates to start in central defence.
The midfield has also been hit, with Cole Palmer, Dario Essugo and Andrey Santos sidelined, further depleting Maresca’s options.
Speaking ahead of the fixture, Maresca linked the spate of injuries to fatigue from Chelsea’s recent Club World Cup campaign. “It has been a very demanding schedule. We had only 20 days of rest after the tournament, and that may have contributed to the high number of injuries. But we will adapt,” he said.
Despite their struggles, Maresca maintained that Liverpool remain a formidable opponent. “They may have suffered defeats recently, but they are still dangerous,” he added.
Liverpool, coached by Arne Slot, arrive at Stamford Bridge on the back of successive losses to Crystal Palace and Galatasaray.
However, they still top the Premier League table and boast a potent attack led by Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo, though first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker will miss the game.
In their last five meetings, both sides have shared mixed fortunes, with Chelsea winning once, drawing once, and losing three times.
Kick-off is scheduled for 5:30 pm at Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea will be hoping to overcome their depleted squad and halt Liverpool’s title charge.
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