Saturday's Premier League showdown at the King Power Stadium pits third-placed Chelsea against a struggling Leicester City side positioned 15th in the table. Mauricio Pochettino's Blues look to strengthen their grip on the top spots, while Steve Cooper's Foxes aim to snap their winless streak.
The match carries additional significance as it marks Enzo Maresca's homecoming to the club he successfully guided back to the Premier League last season.
Team news
Medical updates dominate both camps' preparations for this vital encounter. Chelsea received positive news as Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill have returned to training following their absence from England duty.
The Blues' squad depth improves with Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, and Jadon Sancho back in training, though Romeo Lavia's participation remains uncertain due to a hamstring injury sustained against Arsenal.
Chelsea's recent performances tell a story of inconsistency, managing just one victory in their previous five league matches. Their campaign has been marked by draws against Arsenal, Manchester United, and Nottingham Forest, with their only defeats coming against title contenders Manchester City and Liverpool.
Leicester City's situation appears more challenging, failing to secure a win in four consecutive matches. Their last outing ended in a disappointing 3-0 loss to Manchester United before the international break.
While Jamie Vardy and Patson Daka's potential return brings optimism, the squad faces setbacks with Ricardo Pereira, Jordan Ayew, and Issahaku Fatawu sidelined through injuries. Facundo Buonanotte's suspension further reduces Cooper's selection options.
Key players to watch
Leicester City's hopes rest heavily on Jamie Vardy, who leads their scoring charts with four goals this season. The experienced striker's sharp instincts in front of goal could prove decisive for the home side.
Pedro Neto emerges as Chelsea's player to watch following his impressive display against Arsenal. The summer signing challenges Noni Madueke for a starting position on the right wing.
Leicester City vs Chelsea: Predicted lineups
Leicester City's probable lineup: Hermansen, Justin, Faes, Vestergaard, Kristiansen, Winks, Soumare, Ndidi, Mavididi, El Khannouss, Vardy.
Chelsea's likely 4-2-3-1 formation: Sanchez, Gusto, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella. Caicedo, Fernandez, Neto, Palmer, Madueke, Jackson.
Match details
The battle commences at 12:30 PM (GMT) on Saturday, 23 November 2024, at Leicester's King Power Stadium. UK viewers can follow the action on TNT Sports and Discovery+.
Chelsea holds the historical advantage with four victories in their last five Premier League meetings against Leicester. The Foxes' determination to escape the relegation zone adds extra intensity to this crucial fixture.
Both teams approach this match with clear objectives - Chelsea aiming to maintain their top-three position whilst Leicester seeks crucial points to climb the table.