Express Sport looks at how Chelsea might line up against Fulham (Image: GETTY)
will be hoping to return to winning ways on Boxing Day when they host neighbours . The Blues were held to a goalless draw by Everton last time out, allowing to gain crucial ground in the title race.It leaves four points behind their Merseyside rivals having played an extra game, meaning a win over Fulham will be needed to keep them within touching distance.They will go into the match as clear favourites, having not lost a game in any competition since the end of October. Fulham, meanwhile, have drawn their last three matches and would likely be happy with another point against .Express Sport takes a look at how the Blues could line up…
Marc Cucurella is available to play after serving his one-game suspension last weekend (Image: GETTY)
Goalkeeper – Sanchez
Maresca has made it clear that he is planning to stick with Robert Sanchez as the first-choice goalkeeper. He has not been entirely convincing at times but has only conceded one goal in his last two games.The Spaniard kept his fourth clean sheet of the season against Everton and will be hoping to go back-to-back on Boxing Day.
Defence – Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella
Marc Cucurella will almost certainly start on the left side of defence, having served his one-game suspension last weekend. His return will be a huge boost for the Blues with Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile and Reece James all injured.As a result, is expected to continue with the central pairing of Tosin Adarabioyo and Levi Colwill. On the right, Malo Gusto could replace Axel Disasi.
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Midfield – Caicedo, Fernandez, Palmer
It will be business as usual in the middle of the park, with Moises Caicedo featuring alongside Enzo Fernandez in the engine room. Romeo Lavia is back in training but will not be fit enough to face Fulham.Further forward, there will be no surprises with playing in his usual role behind the lone striker.
Attack – Madueke, Sancho, Jackson
Noni Madueke could be handed a start if Maresca decides to rotate his forward line. He might come in for either or Jadon Sancho, with Nicolas Jackson expected to retain his place up front.Christopher Nkunku will be pushing for minutes but is more likely to get his chance against Ipswich Town, with that game a better opportunity for Jackson to be rested.Predicted XI vs Fulham – Sanchez; Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Madueke, Palmer, Sancho; Jackson.