As Chelsea faces Tottenham today, manager Mauricio Pochettino deals with a critical shortage of players, impacting the team’s lineup for the pivotal London derby

In today’s eagerly anticipated Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea is forced to contend with a significantly depleted roster. Manager Mauricio Pochettino announced that a substantial injury list, which includes 14 players, has left the team scrambling to field a competitive starting eleven for the clash at Stamford Bridge.

The injury woes have particularly hit hard with key players such as Thiago Silva and Axel Disasi sidelined. Silva, who has been a stalwart in Chelsea’s defence, suffered a groin injury in a recent match against Aston Villa. This injury might sideline him for the remainder of his final season with Chelsea, following his announcement to leave the club this summer. Disasi’s absence, cited as due to unspecified reasons, further complicates the defensive setup.

Chelsea’s preparation for the London derby saw a bit of good news with Levi Colwill and Christopher Nkunku returning to full training. However, the game comes too soon for them to participate, leaving Pochettino with limited options. The situation is further exacerbated by the continued absence of players like Reece James, Malo Gusto, Enzo Fernandez, and others due to various injuries.

With only nine senior outfield players available, Chelsea’s lineup includes some less familiar names stepping into crucial roles. Alfie Gilchrist is expected to fill in for Silva alongside Trevoh Chalobah, Benoit Badiashile, and Marc Cucurella in the defence. The midfield sees Moises Caicedo and Conor Gallagher forming a double pivot, tasked with anchoring and transitioning play.

The front four will consist of Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer, Mykhailo Mudryk, and Nicolas Jackson, who will need to maximize their offensive efforts to compensate for the team’s defensive vulnerabilities. Chelsea’s bench reflects the dire depth issues, with Cesare Casadei, a newcomer in his first professional season, among the more experienced substitutes.

Despite the challenges, Chelsea’s second-half performance against Aston Villa offered a glimmer of hope, showcasing the team’s resilience and capability to fight back under pressure. Pochettino and his squad will be eager to replicate that spirit as they aim to bolster their chances for a European competition spot.

As the 7:30 PM kickoff approaches, all eyes will be on Stamford Bridge, with the match broadcast live on Sky Sports. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Chelsea navigates this high-stakes game amidst their current adversities.