Chelsea return to Premier League action this weekend, welcoming Nottingham Forest to Stamford Bridge on Sunday, October 6.
The Blues aim to extend their impressive form, having won four and drawn one of their last five league games under Enzo Maresca.
Following an opening-day loss to Manchester City, Chelsea have been unstoppable, scoring 15 goals in their last five Premier League matches under the leadership of Enzo Maresca.
Notably, their 4-2 midweek victory in the Conference League over Gent has set the stage for a potential sixth consecutive win in all competitions.
Meanwhile, Nuno Espirito Santo’s side boasts an impressive defensive record, conceding just five goals in six games; the joint-second lowest in the league. This stingy defense will test Chelsea’s attacking prowess.
Despite losing to Fulham last weekend, Nottingham Forest remain unbeaten on the road, with two wins and one draw in their away games. Their notable victory over Liverpool at Anfield demonstrates their ability to challenge top-tier opponents.
It remains to be seen whether Chelsea’s attacking flair will overcome Forest’s defensive solidity.
Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest Team News
Blues manager Enzo Maresca is expected to revert to his regular starting XI after making several changes for Thursday’s Europa Conference League match against Gent.
Key players Cole Palmer, Wesley Fofana, and Romeo Lavia were rested but are likely to return to the lineup.
Chelsea’s golden boy Cole Palmer is expected to make his return after his stunning four-goal performance against Brighton last Saturday.
His presence will bolster Chelsea’s attacking lineup as they face a resilient Nottingham Forest defense.
Furthermore, Noni Madueke and Jadon Sancho have solidified their positions as Maresca’s preferred wide options, and they are expected to retain their spots after being rested midweek.
On injury updates, Romeo Lavia has made a successful return from a hamstring issue last weekend, coming off the bench in the win over Brighton.
However, Reece James remains sidelined with a hamstring problem, and Maresca is cautious about rushing his captain’s return. That means he will continue to play Malo Gusto as James’ replacement until the Englishman returns.
On the other hand, Nottingham Forest receive a significant boost with the return of Morgan Gibbs-White, who missed last weekend’s loss to Fulham due to suspension.
The England midfielder’s availability will strengthens Forest’s midfield when they travel to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, October 5.
On their injury updates, Forest continue to deal with long-term injuries to Danilo and Ibrahim Sangare, who remain sidelined.
Aside those two, no new injuries were reported, providing Nuno Espirito Santo’s side with a relatively healthy squad for the Chelsea clash.
Head-to-Head Record
The Blues hold the edge in their historical encounters with Nottingham Forest. Out of 98 encounters, Chelsea had 41 victories, Nottingham Forest won 27 meetings, and 30 ended in a draw.
Chelsea Vs Nottingham Forest Predicted Lineup
Chelsea predicted XI: Sanchez, Gusto, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella, Caicedo, Fernandez, Madueke, Palmer, Sancho, Jackson
Nottingham Forest predicted XI: Sels; Aina, Milenkovic, Murillo, Moreno; Yates, Ward-Prowse; Gibbs-White, Anderson, Hudson-Odoi; Wood
Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest Kick-off
The Premier League match between Chelsea and Nottingham Forest will take place at Stamford Bridge with kick off set for 14:00 UK Time.
Match Prediction
Chelsea are expected to secure their sixth consecutive win in all competitions, with Forest posing a potential challenge by strengthening their defense.
Despite the possibility of a tough match, the Blues are still predicted to come out on top, even if it means a narrow 1-0 victory.
