Chelsea predicted line-up vs Wolves: three changes made as Pochettino rolls the dice on attacking line

Chelsea are expected to make three changes to the side that were humiliated 4-1 by Liverpool in midweek. The Blues were dealt a reality check about their chances of competing for the Premier League anytime soon as a rampant Reds side ran ragged on home soil.

It would be foolish of Mauricio Pochettino to name an unchanged side given the abundance of options at his disposal. Wolverhampton Wanderers, on the other hand, have emerged as a formidable top-flight outfit under Gary O’Neil.

Many expected Wolves to struggle this season but, after a tricky start, are now just two points behind Chelsea in 10th spot. They are also aiming to bounce back after suffering 97th-minute heartbreak - despite equalising moments earlier - against Manchester United.

We have the latest team news and injury updates below as well as our prediction for how Chelsea will line up tomorrow afternoon. If you’re looking for fantasy team tips, you can also check out our Top 500 manager’s regular advice column by clicking here.

Goalkeeper and Defence

Robert Sanchez remains sidelined so Djordje Petrovic retains his place between the sticks. In defence, Pochettino has his first selection dilemma to contend with as Benoit Badiashile was ripped apart against Liverpool.

With Malo Gusto completing 45 minutes from the bench, expect him to return at right-back and Axel Disasi to move alongside Thiago Silva - his favoured position. Ben Chilwell is yet to look convincing since returning from a hamstring injury and was hooked at half-time in midweek.

Providing he is fit to play, expect him to start at left-back. Marc Cucurella (ankle) is not expected to return until March.

Midfield

Conor Gallagher was his usually erratic self at Anfield and arguably should have had a penalty early on. But as has often been the case this season, he lacked quality and time must surely be running out for the England international.

Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo are yet to justify their astronomical price tags but, given the alternatives, should start versus Wolves. Cole Palmer was asked to lead the line at Liverpool but could return to a deeper role, depending on where Christopher Nkunku or Nicolas Jackson play.

Romero Lavia (thigh) and Lesley Ugochukwu (hamstring) remain sidelined. Pochettino needs a good performance from his engine room following the abomination on Wednesday.

Attack

Now, this is where things get interesting. Chelsea looked lightweight in midweek when Palmer was asked to lead the line.

But his technical ability out wide or in the number 10 role - his preferred position - could get the Blues ticking. Nicolas Jackson is available following Senegal’s African Cup of Nations exit and will likely start up front.

Chelsea fans have only caught a glimpse of Christopher Nkunku’s brilliance and he scored against Liverpool after coming off the bench. Is he ready for a run in the team? On the left flank, Raheem Sterling will likely keep his place.

Predicted Chelsea side vs Wolves

(4-2-3-1) Petrovic; Gusto, Disasi, Silva, Chilwell; Fernandez, Caicedo, Palmer; Nkunku, Sterling, Jackson.