Chelsea’s Mauricio Pochettino heads into today’s high-stakes London derby against Tottenham with a severely limited lineup due to multiple injuries

Chelsea enters today’s crucial Premier League matchup against Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge with a significantly weakened team. Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea’s manager, faces a daunting challenge as 14 players are sidelined due to injuries, leaving him with minimal options.

The London derby, known for its intensity and high stakes, will see Chelsea without key figures like Thiago Silva and Axel Disasi. Silva, who suffered a groin injury during a 2-2 draw at Aston Villa, has announced his departure from Chelsea at the end of this season, adding emotional weight to his absence. Disasi is out for unspecified reasons, further complicating Pochettino’s defensive strategies.

Chelsea’s situation is particularly dire as Levi Colwill and Christopher Nkunku, although back in full training, are not ready to participate in today’s game. This adds to the already extensive list of unavailable players including Reece James, Malo Gusto, Enzo Fernandez, Lesley Ugochukwu, Ben Chilwell, Romeo Lavia, Robert Sanchez, and Wesley Fofana.

Despite these challenges, Chelsea’s lineup features some strategic adjustments. Alfie Gilchrist is set to step in for Silva, joining Trevoh Chalobah, Benoit Badiashile, and Marc Cucurella in the back four. Djordje Petrovic will continue his role between the posts.

In midfield, Moises Caicedo and Conor Gallagher will operate as a double pivot, providing stability and attempting to control the game’s tempo. The attacking front will consist of Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer, Mykhailo Mudryk, and Nicolas Jackson, a quartet that promises dynamism and creativity upfront.

Chelsea’s bench includes Cesare Casadei, who, despite being in his first senior professional season, is the most experienced substitute available. This highlights the extent of Chelsea’s current predicament with injuries and player availability.

The match is set for a 7:30 PM kickoff at Stamford Bridge, with live coverage on Sky Sports. Chelsea’s fans remain hopeful that despite the depleted squad, the team can replicate their impressive second-half performance from the Villa Park game and secure a victory to enhance their chances of qualifying for European competition