Chelsea face Sunderland this weekend, with Xabi Alonso facing some important selection decisions as he looks to build on recent performances and secure another three points.
While several players have strengthened their claims for a starting place following the Manchester United victory, others could find themselves dropping to the bench. Injuries will also play a part in shaping the manager's selection, potentially limiting his options in certain positions.
We gave a preview to the predicted XI but we reevaluate now .There are three players who should be considered non-negotiable starters, however, two others could make way as Alonso looks to get the balance right for the visit of Sunderland.
Starter - Estevao
The Brazilian will be eager to build on last week's performance, with his direct running, pace and dribbling ability causing problems for opposition defenders down the right flank.
He offers Chelsea something different in the final third, regularly taking on his marker and creating opportunities rather than relying on possession to open up a defence. With confidence growing after being given more minutes, he deserves another start against Sunderland.
He will also be keen to make a greater contribution in the statistics column, whether through a goal or an assist, to strengthen his case for a regular place in Alonso's side.
On the bench - Wesley Fofana
Brian Brobbey will bring a physical presence to Sunderland's attack and is likely to target Wesley Fofana, whose struggles when dealing with strong, direct forwards have become a concern. Brobbey's ability to hold up the ball, compete in aerial duels and occupy centre-backs could cause Chelsea problems.
Fofana, meanwhile, has not been performing to the required standard, with his displays in the last three games leaving plenty to be desired. Chelsea cannot afford another shaky performance from the Frenchman, particularly against a striker capable of testing him physically.
Starter - Jordan Henderson
With doubts over Moises Caicedo's availability, the Sunderland-born midfielder could be called upon to step up and partner Romeo Lavia. The two would need to complement each other, with one taking on the role of the interceptor and the other tasked with pressing opponents and winning possession higher up the pitch.
He always relishes a return home and get three points on the board.
On the bench - Morgan Rogers
Morgan Rogers is one player who has featured in every game this season and has also been away on international duty. I originally had him down to start in the false nine role, but given his involvement with England, this could be an ideal opportunity to give Chelsea's most expensive signing a rest.
If things do not go to plan up north, Alonso will still have the option of bringing Rogers off the bench to make an impact and change the game.
Starter - Mike Penders
I don't believe Emi Martinez should be risked just yet, particularly as his injury could leave Chelsea with a potential weakness that Sunderland will exploit. Regis Le Bris’ team are likely to put plenty of balls into the box to test the Argentine's confidence and physical condition, making an early return an unnecessary gamble.
Magic Mike is now making a strong case to become Chelsea's first-choice goalkeeper after producing an excellent save and keeping a clean sheet last week.
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