According to a report by London Evening Standard on Wednesday October 28, 2026, Chelsea have confirmed their starting lineup for the Carabao Cup fourth-round clash against Liverpool, with Danny Welbeck leading the attack in the continued absence of Joao Pedro.

Xabi Alonso has made several changes to his team for Wednesday night's encounter at Anfield, while Cole Palmer misses out through suspension following his dismissal against Tottenham.

The Blues head into the contest hoping to secure an important victory after a disappointing weekend result against their London rivals. Joao Pedro remains unavailable after sustaining a thigh injury that is expected to keep him out for several weeks.

Alonso confirmed that the Brazilian striker would not be ready for Chelsea's upcoming fixtures, forcing the manager to consider alternative attacking options. Morgan Rogers was deployed as a makeshift striker against Tottenham, but Welbeck has now been selected to lead the frontline against Liverpool.

The experienced forward will receive support from Rogers and Pedro Neto in attack. Estevao, who was confirmed to be part of the travelling squad, starts on the bench and could provide an attacking option later in the game.

Mike Penders retains his place in goal despite making a costly mistake against Tottenham. With first-choice goalkeeper Emi Martinez still recovering from a broken jaw, Alonso has continued to show confidence in the young shot-stopper.

Chelsea have also made adjustments in midfield, with Romeo Lavia joining Moises Caicedo in the central partnership. Jordan Henderson provides additional support, while Malo Gusto and Josh Acheampong are included in the defensive setup.

Wesley Fofana returns to the starting lineup to strengthen the back three alongside Acheampong and Maxence Lacroix. The defensive changes will be important as Chelsea attempt to contain Liverpool's attacking threats at Anfield.

However, the Blues remain without several players. Pep Chavarria continues his recovery from injury, while captain Reece James, Martinez and Jamie Gittens are also unavailable. Palmer's suspension is another significant setback, leaving Chelsea without one of their most influential attacking players.

Alonso will hope his selection decisions help Chelsea overcome Liverpool and secure a place in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.

Chelsea Confirmed Starting Lineup: Penders; Acheampong, Lacroix, Fofana; Gusto, Lavia, Caicedo, Henderson; Rogers, Neto; Welbeck.