Head coach Thomas Tuchel will be forced into making at least one change to his Chelsea starting lineup for Saturday's Premier League fixture with Leicester City.

Kalidou Koulibaly received two yellow cards during the 3-0 defeat at Leeds United last weekend, subsequently resulting in his red card and a one-match ban.

With Trevoh Chalobah expected to depart on loan, Marc Cucurella could switch to the left-hand side of a back three, enabling Ben Chilwell to return at left wing-back.

Cesar Azpilicueta could also earn a recall to the team on the right-hand side of defence, allowing Reece James to push further forward down that side of the pitch.

Although Conor Gallagher could be given another opportunity in central midfield, Ruben Loftus-Cheek may partner Jorginho with Mateo Kovacic only fit enough for the substitutes' bench and N'Golo Kante out for another month with a hamstring injury.

If Armando Broja returns from a minor injury, the academy graduate could challenge Kai Havertz for a spot down the middle of Chelsea's attack.

Nevertheless, despite the German and the likes of Mason Mount and Raheem Sterling yet to fire on all cylinders, the trio could all retain their places in the final third.

Chelsea possible starting lineup: Mendy; Azpilicueta, Silva, Cucurella; James, Jorginho, Loftus-Cheek, Chilwell; Mount, Sterling; Havertz

Written by
Darren Plant