Chelsea will be hoping to bounce back from their recent lapses
image credit: Soccer Facts
Chelsea is set to face Ipswich Town at Portman Road on Monday evening, aiming to rebound from their recent 2-1 defeat to Fulham on Boxing Day.
This loss ended Chelsea’s nine-match unbeaten run in the Premier League and marked their third defeat of the season.
Under the management of Enzo Maresca, Chelsea has demonstrated strong form this season, currently sitting in second place, four points behind league leaders Liverpool.
The team boasts the second-highest goal tally in the league, with 37 goals, and has shown significant improvements in both defense and attack.
However, the recent loss to Fulham has prompted Maresca to call for a swift response from his squad.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards in training and match performances, indicating potential changes to the lineup to invigorate the team’s performance.
Notably, Noni Madueke and Renato Veiga were omitted from the squad against Fulham due to perceived shortcomings in training efforts.
Ipswich Town, newly promoted to the Premier League, currently occupies 19th place in the standings.
Despite their position, they have shown resilience with recent victories against Tottenham Hotspur and Wolverhampton Wanderers, as well as a draw with Manchester United.
Chelsea’s away form has been impressive, leading the league in both away points and goals scored. Striker Cole Palmer has been particularly noteworthy, with betting experts suggesting he is a likely candidate to score in the upcoming match.
In preparation for the match, Maresca has stressed the need for a strong response from his players, stating,
We need to react immediately and show our true capabilities.
The team is expected to make tactical adjustments to address recent defensive lapses and capitalize on their attacking strengths.
Team News
As Chelsea prepares to face Ipswich Town at Portman Road, both teams have notable updates regarding player availability and potential lineups.
Chelsea Team News
Manager Enzo Maresca is expected to make strategic adjustments following recent performances.
Defensive injuries may necessitate changes in the backline, with Axel Disasi and Renato Veiga as potential candidates to reinforce the defense.
In attack, Maresca may opt for a dynamic front line featuring Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer, João Félix, and Christopher Nkunku, aiming to enhance offensive productivity.
Ipswich Town Team News
Ipswich Town, striving to improve their league standing, will look to key players for impactful performances. Striker Liam Delap, who has garnered attention for his potential and recent form, is anticipated to lead the attack.
The team has faced challenges in recent matches, and manager Kieran McKenna may consider tactical adjustments to bolster both defense and midfield stability.
Predicted Lineups
Chelsea (4-2-3-1):
Sánchez; Disasi, Adarabioyo, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernández; Madueke, Palmer, Félix; Nkunku.
Ipswich Town (4-3-3):
Hladky; Clarke, Wolfenden, Burgess, Davis; Morsy, Luongo, Taylor; Burns, Delap, Broadhead.
Both teams are expected to field competitive lineups, with Chelsea aiming to rebound from recent setbacks and Ipswich Town seeking to capitalize on home advantage to secure crucial points.
Chris Sutton’s Prediction
Former England striker Chris Sutton anticipates a Chelsea victory, citing the team’s superior quality despite Ipswich’s commendable performances this season. Sutton remarked,
I am backing them [Chelsea] to bounce back here, though, because they should have too much quality for Ipswich.
Sutton’s prediction: 0-2
The match against Ipswich Town presents an opportunity for Chelsea to reaffirm their title ambitions and regain momentum as the season progresses.
Supporters will be keen to see how the team responds to recent challenges and adapts to maintain their pursuit of Premier League success.