Xabi Alonso may test some of his biggest names as Chelsea face Tottenham in a pre-season friendly on Saturday morning.
First-team stars set to return
Alonso named only four first-team players in Chelsea's pre-season opener, a 6-4 win over Western Sydney Wanderers. He left most stars on the bench initially but made several changes with 25 minutes left, bringing on Robert Sanchez, Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Cole Palmer, Marco Palestra, Estevao, Jamie Gittens and Joao Pedro.
The Spaniard will be keen to beat Roberto De Zerbi's Tottenham and may be tempted to name a stronger side from the start.
Predicted lineup and team news
Robert Sanchez may replace Teddy Sharman-Lowe in goal, while Levi Colwill could step into the starting lineup at centre-back. Summer signing Marco Palestra hopes to make his first start, though Landon Emenalo may keep his spot at left-back.
Reggie Watson impressed against Western Sydney and could get another chance, with Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli also in contention after a strong performance off the bench.
Up front, Dastan Satpayev is expected to keep his place on the left flank, with Cole Palmer coming in on the right. Reggie Walsh will continue in the No.10 role, while Joao Pedro replaces Liam Delap as the striker.
Injury and availability concerns
Maxence Lacroix will not be available despite his transfer from Crystal Palace being confirmed on Thursday. Morgan Rogers is also out as he remains on post-World Cup holidays. The fitness of Jorrel Hato and Mamadou Sarr is uncertain after they missed the Western Sydney match, while Filip Jorgensen has flown home to complete a transfer.
Predicted Chelsea XI (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; Emenalo, Colwill, Acheampong, Palestra; Nicoll-Jazuli, Watson; Satpayev, Walsh, Palmer; Joao Pedro.
Doubts: Hato, Sarr. Unavailable: Jorgensen.
