English Premier League comes to life again after the international break as Everton host Jose Mourinho’s side at the Goodison Park on Saturday afternoon, looking to inflict more misery on already struggling defending champions.
Chelsea, on the other hand, will be keen to get their campaign back on the track after enduring second-worst start to the title defence in the Premier League history.
Only Blackburn (1994/95) champions got off to a worse title defence when they pocketed just three points from the opening four games.
Let’s have an independent look at the injury and suspensions for both sides.
Injury and Suspension Updates
Chelsea
Jose Mourinho’s side suffered a massive blow with the news that first-choice goalkeeper Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is required to undergo a knee surgery and will remain sidelined for up to eight weeks.
Summer signing Asmir Begovic will have a go in the absence of Courtois. Jamal Blackman is expected to start on the bench, but playmaker Oscar (knee) is still a few days away from full fitness.
Chelsea skipper John Terry is available after serving a one-match suspension while defender Papy Djilobodji is also part of the squad after signing from Nantes.
Provisional squad: Asmir Begovic, Gary Cahill, César Azpilicueta, Diego Costa, Juan Cuadrado, Papy Djilobodji, Falcao, Cesc Fàbregas, Eden Hazard, Branislav Ivanovic, Kenedy, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Nemanja Matic, John Obi Mikel, Pedro, Baba Rahman, Ramires, Loïc Remy, John Terry, Willian, Kurt Zouma, Jamal Blackman
Everton
For Everton, left-back Bryan Oviedo is subject to a late decision by manager Roberto Martinez. The fitness of Costa Rica international who was forced international duty will be assessed hours before Saturday’s key matchup.
Defender Brendan Galloway (knee) has regained fitness and is available for selection.
Deadline day signing Aaron Lennon is also likely to be named in the squad.
Midfielder Tom Cleverley (ankle) has been ruled out for six weeks due to a knee injury.
Provisional squad: Tim Howard, Seamus Coleman, John Stones, Phil Jagielka, Brendon Galloway, Gareth Barry, James McCarthy, Ross Barkley, Kevin Mirallas, Romelu Lukaku, Arouna Kone, Robles, Tyias Browning, Funes Mori, Muhamed Basic, Leon Osman, Aaron Lennon, Gerard Deulofeu, Steven Naismith, Aiden McGeady, Leandro Rodriguez.
