Predicted Chelsea XI vs Brighton as vital Blues return to fitness

The Pride of London predict the possible Chelsea lineup for the match against Brighton & Hove Albion. This task has been made harder by the fact that further Blues have returned to fitness this month, and even this week. Which players are back, and who remains injured? With the west London outfit on the precipice of crucial European qualification, CFC head coach Mauricio Pochettino says that his team must 'keep strong'. Can they do it?

Pochettino has urged his men to remain focused and to be at the level they have been recently. This way, the Chelsea boss believes that the team have a chance of making sixth place in the Premier League and thusly qualifying for the Europa Conference League.

Standing in the Blues' way are Newcastle United; Manchester United are also on the horizon. CFC and the Magpies both sit on 57 points; the Red Devils are on 54. All three clubs have two remaining matches, and either could claim the spot. Incidentally, the Uniteds actually play one another on Wednesday evening. The outcome of that encounter, and Chels' vs Brighton, will give clarity to the situation.

Currently fifth Tottenham Hotspur only have a couple of fixtures left, as well. The Blues could technically catch Spurs, who entertain Manchester City at home on Tuesday night. However, a trip to Sheffield United will probably confirm Europa League football for Tottenham in 2024/25.

Team news and expected Chelsea XI vs Brighton

Let's take a look at what else 'Poch' said during his pre-match press conference. First of all, availability. Thankfully defender Ben Chilwell might perhaps return to the matchday squad along with midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka.

Obviously the England international is more vital to the CFC side than his younger teammate. Though it is great to have a rounded roster to choose from after many injury worries this season. The gaffer revealed that the pair will feature on Sunday against Bournemouth if not in midweek.

Reece James, Malo Gusto, Christopher Nkunku, Thiago Silva and Axel Disasi all made comebacks of late, in a real boost at Stamford Bridge. There are now only four senior absentees on Fulham Road: Enzo Fernandez, Robert Sanchez, Romeo Lavia and Wesley Fofana.

So, how are Chelsea likely to lineup against the Seagulls? We will probably see the same starting side from the Nottingham Forest clash:

Djordje Petrovic; Trevoh Chalobah, Thiago Silva, Benoit Badiashile, Marc Cucurella; Moises Caicedo, Conor Gallagher; Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer, Mykhailo Mudryk; Nicolas Jackson.