Liverpool will face arguably their toughest test of Arne Slot’s tenure on Sunday. Chelsea are the visitors to Anfield for what should be an intriguing contest.
The Reds are top of the table ahead of the resumption of top-flight football following the international break. The 1-0 win at Crystal Palace a fortnight ago ensured Slot’s side would lead the way heading into Week 8, from which the schedule gets a lot tougher.
Chelsea endured another chaotic summer in terms of player trading, although new manager Enzo Maresca has managed to get a tune out of a number of stars in the early weeks of the new campaign. Cole Palmer in particular has arguably been the standout player in the division.
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The Londoners do have a number of fitness conundrums to consider ahead of the game though. Chelsea were handed a boost during the international break when it was confirmed that Reece James had resumed full training ahead of the trip to Anfield.
Whether Maresca decides to throw James straight in against Liverpool remains to be seen, although the Chelsea head coach does have a number of absentees in defence that could force his hand. Wesley Fofana and Marc Cucurella will both miss the match because of suspensions.
Before the break there were minor concerns for Chelsea over the fitness of both Noni Madueke and Levi Colwill. Those fears have been eased though, as both represented England in their Nations League matches.
Carney Chukwuemeka has also missed Chelsea’s last two games with illness, although he featured in training on Monday meaning he will likely be back in contention for the upcoming fixture.
Omari Kellyman is a long-term absentee after he picked up a hamstring problem last month.
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