CHE vs SHU: Pochettino's formidable starting XI that could feature Nkunku and Lavia

 

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino faces a challenging task ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Sheffield United at Stamford Bridge, as three key players have been added to the injury list following the 2-0 defeat to Everton.

Reece James, Robert Sanchez, and Marc Cucurella all suffered setbacks during the Goodison Park loss.

James, struggling with a hamstring issue, is expected to be sidelined for several weeks, joining the likes of Trevoh Chalobah, Lesley Ugochukwu, Wesley Fofana, Ben Chilwell, and Carney Chukwuemeka in the treatment room.

The extent of Sanchez and Cucurella's injuries remains undisclosed, adding to the defensive woes.

Romeo Lavia, Christopher Nkunku, Noni Madueke, and Malo Gusto are also on the verge of being unavailable.

If Gusto doesn't get the green light, Axel Disasi might step in at right-back, prompting a reshuffle with Thiago Silva returning alongside Benoit Badiashile.

In midfield, Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo form an untouchable pairing, while Conor Gallagher is set to wear the captain's armband in the absence of James.

The backline may see Levi Colwill replacing Cucurella, with Djordje Petrovic potentially guarding the goal if Sanchez is ruled out.

Despite defensive adjustments, Pochettino seems poised to start Cole Palmer in attack.

However, Raheem Sterling and Nicolas Jackson could feature, with the latter avoiding retrospective action for an incident involving Everton's Nathan Patterson.