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According to a report by Football London on Tuesday October 27, 2026, Chelsea will be eager to recover from their disappointing 2-0 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur when they travel to Anfield on Wednesday for their Carabao Cup fourth-round encounter against Liverpool.
Xabi Alonso must make at least one alteration following Cole Palmer’s dismissal against Tottenham, with the Chelsea midfielder suspended for the upcoming fixture against Liverpool.
However, further changes are expected as Alonso considers resting several important players while giving other members of his squad opportunities to impress against Liverpool.
Mike Penders is expected to retain his place in goal despite his costly mistake against Tottenham, with Emiliano Martinez still unavailable because of injury.
Wesley Fofana could replace Josh Acheampong in defence as Alonso considers rotating his options. Acheampong has performed reasonably well this season despite Chelsea’s recent disappointing result.
Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill are expected to complete Chelsea’s predicted three-man defence for their difficult trip to Anfield.
Pedro Neto has arguably been Chelsea’s standout performer this season, but the winger could be rested. Marco Palestra, signed from Atalanta for £47 million during the summer, is expected to replace him.
Moises Caicedo could also receive a break after his impressive performances. His absence would create an opportunity for Romeo Lavia to feature in midfield alongside Valentin Barco, who could replace Jordan Henderson.
Meanwhile, Jorrel Hato is expected to retain his position if Pep Chavarria fails to recover from his injury before Wednesday’s encounter against Liverpool.
Palmer’s suspension opens the door for Estevao Willian to return to the starting lineup. Morgan Rogers could operate on the left flank, providing attacking support from the opposite side.
Danny Welbeck is also expected to lead Chelsea’s attack because Joao Pedro is unlikely to recover from injury in time for the Anfield trip. Welbeck was unfortunate to miss out against Tottenham and could now receive his opportunity.
Chelsea’s predicted starting XI (3-4-2-1): Penders; Fofana, Lacroix, Colwill; Palestra, Lavia, Barco, Hato; Estevao, Rogers; Welbeck.