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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Matt Verri

Chelsea XI vs Wrexham: Predicted lineup, confirmed team news, injury latest for FA Cup

Chelsea predicted XI vs Wrexham - (ES Composite)

Romeo Lavia could make his first start of 2026 when Chelsea face Wrexham in the FA Cup.

The Blues travel to take on the Championship side in a blockbuster fifth-round tie on Saturday evening.

Lavia spent almost four months on the sidelines with a quad injury he suffered in November, but has returned to make appearances off the bench against Arsenal and Aston Villa.

The midfielder came through those without any setbacks and is now in contention to feature from the off against Wrexham.

"Romeo Lavia is doing very well and he’s ready to go [from the start]," Liam Rosenior confirmed at his pre-match press conference.

"I’m delighted for him and he will definitely play a part tomorrow. He will play a big part for the rest of the season and his attributes will help us."

Estevao Willian and Jamie Gittens are both nearng returns from hamstring injuries, but this match will come too soon for them. Chelsea hope to have the pair back in training next week.

Liam Delap could come into the starting lineup to lead the line, with the in-form Joao Pedro among those likely to be rested ahead of the Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain in midweek.

"When he gets his opportunity, I expect him to take it, as I do with all the players," Rosenior said of Delap on Friday.

"He will get his opportunities in big games."

Pedro Neto is available again after suspension and will bolster Rosenior's options on the wing, while Enzo Fernandez could be one of the few first-choice players to start at the Racecourse Ground.

Predicted Chelsea XI: Jorgensen; Gusto, Acheampong, Sarr, Hato; Lavia, Santos; Neto, Enzo, Garnacho; Delap

Injured: Colwill, Gittens, Estevao

Time and date: 5.45pm GMT on Saturday March 7, 2026

Venue: Racecourse Ground

How to watch: BBC One

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