Chelsea dropped two points after a disappointing 2-2 draw against Sheffield United last week at Bramall Lane. The Londoners took the lead twice in the game, but could not hold onto it on both occasions. It was Oliver McBurnie who scored a 93rd-minute winner to help Sheffield bag a point on the evening. A draw against Sheffield has placed Chelsea in the ninth spot. They are now six points behind Newcastle United who are sixth on the table with 50 points.
With games against Arsenal, Tottenham and Aston Villa still to be played, the Blues will have to put their best foot forward against Everton. However, there have been a few injury problems at Cobham and this means that Mauricio Pochettino will once again have to go with a different starting lineup. Below we discuss the potential starting lineup that will take the field against the Toffees.
Goalkeeper: Djordje Petrovic
Djordje Petrovic has been one of the mainstays at the Chelsea team this season. His brilliance helped him take over the goalkeeping responsibilities from Robert Sanchez. The Serbian has received a lot of praise from the fans, but his performances in recent games have not been up to the mark. However, with Robert Sanchez listed as absent due to illness, it looks like Petrovic will once again be the man between the sticks for CFC.
Right-Back: Malo Gusto
Malo Gusto missed out on the game against the Blades last week due to an injury. His absence was felt because Mauricio Pochettino's men struggled to make progress on the attacking front during certain periods of the game. He trained with the team and is not listed on the injury report, which means that Gusto could make his return to the starting lineup in the game against the EFC.
Centre-Back: Benoit Badiashile
Benoit Badiashile has struggled from the back for Chelsea this season. He was brought on as a sub in the game against Sheffield United, but failed to showcase any fight to help the team get to a win. However, the massive injury list means that manager Mauricio Pochettino will have to start him against Everton.
Centre-Back: Thiago Silva
Thiago Silva has not been a regular name in the lineup for Chelsea this season. The Blues have struggled to keep opponents from scoring with the Brazilian in the backline. However, with injuries to Levi Colwill and Axel Disasi, the veteran defender could once again start for Chelsea. He will be hoping to inspire the team to win as the fight for European spots gets intense with every passing gameweek.
Left-Back : Marc Cucurella
Marc Cucurella recently made his return to the lineup for the Blues after a lengthy layoff due to injury. Since returning, the Spaniard has looked decent and will once again be part of the manager's starting lineup. His offensive ability is highly questionable, but Cucurella's effort on the defensive end has always been exceptional.
Central-Mid: Conor Gallagher
Conor Galagher has been one of the best players for Chelsea this season. In the absence of Reece James and Ben Chilwell, he has been the captain of the club. The England international has put in the hard yards and elevated his game to the next level this campaign. There is no confirmation about his future with the club, but there is no doubt that if Chelsea are to make it to Europe, Gallagher will have to deliver some quality performances.
Central -Midfielder - Moises Caicedo
Moises Caicedo has been a player that has faced a lot of stick from pundits and opposition fans. However, contrary to popular belief, the Ecuadorian has been a key part of the Blues this season. His ability to intercept and switch plays has helped the club on many occasions. With concerns surrounding Enzo Fernandez's status for this game, Caicedo will have to take extra responsibility and help Chelsea get over the line against Everton.
Attacking Midfielder- Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer has quickly become one of the most talked about players in Europe this season. Despite Chelsea's struggles, Palmer has been brilliant and will be key to their chances even in this game against Everton. The England international usually starts on the right wing, but with the squad being depleted due to injuries, Palmer could be used in the midfield for this encounter.
Left- Winger: Mykhailo Mudryk
Mykhailo Mudryk has had a roller coaster of a season. He has had some big moments, but the Ukrainian has failed to display consistency. His raw pace and explosive skills have showcased some of his ability, but the 23-year-old still has a lot to learn about playing in the Premier League. Pochettino will be using Mudryk to start the game against Everton as Sterling was listed as absent due to illness on Chelsea's injury report.
Striker: Nicolas Jackson
Nicolas Jackson has faced a lot of criticism from the fans and pundits for his performances. However, considering that this was his first season with the Blues, Jackson has put up decent numbers, scoring 12 goals in all competitions so far. He definitely needs to work on his finishing, but the other aspects of his game have improved as the season has progressed. With a few vital games still left to play, Chelsea will be hoping to get the best out of the Senegalese striker.
Right- Wing: Noni Madueke
Noni Madueke scored a stunning goal for Chelsea in the game against Sheffield United. He is a big threat when he decides to run at opponents. The winger has scored some stellar goals and has showcased a lot of potential this season. He will certainly have a tough test in this game against Everton as their backline has some talented players. However, Noni will be looking to stay confident in his ability and to once again get on the score sheet for the Blues.