Graham Potter has a few decisions to make ahead of Chelsea's return to Premier League action against Aston Villa next weekend. The international break has thrown up a few problems for the Blues as they aim to continue their unbeaten run in all competitions heading into April.
Reece James has been withdrawn from England's squad ahead of their Euro 2024 qualifier clash against Ukraine on Sunday. The Chelsea defender has returned to Cobham to undergo an assessment regarding an ongoing injury problem.
N'Golo Kante stepped up his recovery from injury after playing 60 minutes in a development squad friendly against Charlton Athletic. The French midfielder is yet to feature under Potter after being sidelined with an injury since August.
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Potter may have to bring in Trevoh Chalobah in place of James in the starting XI with the England international now a major doubt for the game against Villa. Unai Emery has been hit with his own injury problems after Matty Cash suffered a calf injury whilst away on international duty with Poland.
Kante's return to the team would be a huge boost and potentially help unlock more potential in Enzo Fernandez. The Argentine midfielder has impressed following his British transfer record deal to sign for the Blues in January and is likely to keep his place in midfield.
Noni Madueke impressed for England Under-21s after scoring a goal and grabbing two assists in the 4-0 win against France. Mykhailo Mudryk and Raheem Sterling will be in contention to start alongside Kai Havertz and Joao Felix in attack, but Madueke's performance may be rewarded with a rare start.
James' absence could see Ruben Loftus-Cheek or Chalobah start in his place, with a potential shift back to a four-man defence one option for the Blues boss. Potter will need to make some big decisions if Chelsea are to continue their unbeaten run, so football.london has taken a look at the best starting XI he could field against Aston Villa.
Chelsea starting XI vs Aston Villa (3-4-2-1): Kepa; Fofana, Badiashile, Koulibaly; Chalobah, Kante, Enzo, Chilwell; Felix, Madueke; Havertz.
What team do you think Graham Potter will select for Chelsea's Premier League clash against Aston Villa?
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