Chelsea beat Liverpool in midweek meaning they have now grabbed that fourth spot on the Premier League table – temporarily. But all that could change once again as they prepare to take on Everton on Monday.
The Blues have been in a fine run of form under their new manager and the win against Liverpool was a clear statement of intent from Thomas Tuchel. Chelsea are undefeated in their last 8 matches in the Premier League and they will now be looking to extend that run by beating the Toffees.
Chelsea have not tasted defeat in their last 27 home matches against Everton in all competitions but Carlo Ancelotti’s side are breathing down their necks and are just one point behind them, with a game in hand.
The London outfit are playing some great all-round football over the past few weeks and they will go into Monday’s game as the favourites. Plus, Thomas Tuchel has only two minor injury concerns meaning he will have a lot of options on the bench.
Chelsea team news vs Everton:
Thiago Silva has returned to training with the first-team squad but we doubt if he will be fit for the Everton game or not. If the Brazilian is not ready then Rudiger and Christensen will be partnered by Azpilicueta in the three-man central defence.
Jorginho and Kante started in midfield against Liverpool but that was only to add an extra layer of backup for the defence. Against Everton though, two defensive midfielders will not be needed meaning Kovacic will get to start alongside N’Golo Kante.
Reece James played as the right wing-back in midweek but Callum Hudson-Odoi is likely to come back into the side after remaining an unused sub at Anfield.
Ben Chilwell was pretty solid vs Liverpool but we have a feeling Thomas Tuchel might call back Marcos Alonso on Monday.
Werner ran his socks off during that 1-0 win and he has done more than enough to secure another start up front.
Mason Mount was the star of the show on Thursday night and he along with Hakim Ziyech look very solid in that attacking midfielder’s role. While players like Havertz and Christian Pulisic have been waiting in the wings, we don’t think Tuchel will be in a hurry to break this partnership.
Tammy Abraham is currently out with an ankle injury and the forward might not be fully fit to be named in the matchday squad on Monday.
Stats via Whoscored.
