Xabi Alonso has made two changes to his starting XI for Chelsea's crucial Premier League clash against Sunderland this afternoon.

The Spanish head coach has made one alteration in defence, with Pep Chavarria coming in for Josh Acheampong, who is absent from today's squad. The left-back is expected to return to his natural position, allowing Marco Palestra to switch to the right after filling in on the opposite flank last weekend.

The other change sees Jordan Henderson return to the starting XI to provide greater stability in midfield, with Chelsea expected to line up in a three-man midfield. Estevao Willian makes way, with Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo also retaining their places.

The 4-3-3 formation is likely to see Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers operate as inverted wingers, cutting inside to create opportunities, while the full-backs provide width through overlapping runs.

Pedro Neto could lead the line as the central striker, with the Portuguese winger likely to interchange positions with Rogers to give Chelsea greater fluidity in attack.

Elsewhere, Mike Penders continues in goal, with Emi Martinez absent from the squad. Aaron Anselmino is also named on the bench for the first time this season.

For the hosts, Chemsdine Talbi makes his first Premier League start of the season as Sunderland welcome Chelsea this afternoon. Granit Xhaka and Noah Sadiki also return to the starting XI to strengthen their midfield.

Nordi Mukiele has completed concussion protocols and is available again, while Omar Alderete misses out through suspension. Thomas Meunier and Reinildo Mandava also return to their respective full-back roles.

Chelsea (4-3-3): Penders; Palestra, Fofana, Colwill, Chavarria; Lavia, Caicedo (c), Henderson; Palmer, Neto, Rogers

Chelsea substitutes: Sharman-Lowe, Anselmino, Gusto, Barco, Nicoll-Jazuli, Quenda, Estevao, Emegha, Welbeck

Sunderland (4-2-3-1): Roefs; Meunier, Mukiele, O'Nien, Reinildo; Xhaka, Sadiki; Hume, Le Fee, Talbi; Brobbey.

Subs: Ellborg, Danso, Methalie, Angulo, Rigg, Isidor, Fofana, Tutierov, Ahoka.