Predicted Chelsea line-up (4-2-3-1) vs Fulham, Cucurella starts

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January 7, 2026 17:15 GMT (UK), by Sri Aswin

Chelsea take on west London rivals Fulham in tonight’s Premier League derby at Craven Cottage.

Ahead of the game, interim boss Calum McFarlane could make a few changes from the 1-1 draw against Manchester City on the road.

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Predicted Line-up:

Robert Sanchez was back in first-team training after a minor muscle injury and should return in goal ahead of Filip Jorgensen tonight.

In defence, Reece James is likely to return at right-back with Moises Caicedo available to feature in midfield after suspension.

Trevoh Chalobah and Benoit Badiashile had a good outing against Man City and could continue in the heart of the defence again.

With Cucurella fit, he could return at left-back ahead of Malo Gusto.

Caicedo is poised to line up alongside Enzo Fernandez in central midfield. He served a one-game league ban against the Cityzens.

Further forward, Pedro Neto and Alejandro Garnacho could get the nod on the right and left wing. Cole Palmer is likely to continue as the attacking midfielder.

Liam Delap had a strong cameo against the Cityzens and deserves to lead the attack ahead of Joao Pedro in tonight’s west London derby.

Predicted Chelsea line-up (4-2-3-1) vs Fulham: Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Badiashile, Cucurella; Caicedo, Enzo; Pedro, Palmer, Garnacho; Delap.