Xabi Alonso leads Chelsea into a first public pre-season friendly of the summer against Western Sydney Wanderers in Australia. Debuts are expected in the match.
Expected lineup and system
The Blues have employed a 4-2-3-1 system in two behind-closed-doors friendlies this season, and Alonso is expected to use the same formation. Summer signing Marco Palestra is among those in line for a debut.
Emanuel Emegha and Geovany Quenda were left in London after picking up knocks. Alonso has brought enough players to use a unique XI in each half, blending youth and experience.
Key players and positions
Jorrel Hato is expected to start at left-back, with Palestra opposite. Levi Colwill, returning from an ACL injury, should get minutes. Aaron Anselmino is due a try-out after impressive loan spells at Borussia Dortmund and Strasbourg.
Romeo Lavia could also feature, while Reggie Walsh has impressed in training. Dario Essugo may be preferred in defensive midfield. Jamie Gittens, returning from a hamstring problem, has scored in behind-closed-doors matches and will hope to continue that form. Estevao will start opposite him.
Cole Palmer lines up in the No.10 role, with Joao Pedro up front. Dastan Satpayev, Omari Kellyman, and other youngsters may get chances.
Absences
British-record signing Morgan Rogers has not yet joined the squad. Most players who featured at the World Cup, including Reece James, Trevoh Chalobah, and Pedro Neto, are also absent.
The match takes place at Accor Stadium on Tuesday, July 28 at 10.45am BST.
