Chelsea’s performance overshadowed a seemingly strong start to the season.
After an eye-catching 3-0 victory over Barcelona in the Champions League and a 1-1 draw away to Arsenal with 10 men, expectations were high heading into December.
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However, the Blues have gone three games without a win since and will hope to end that run when they face Everton at Stamford Bridge later today.
In a shocking 3-1 defeat to relegation-struggled Leeds United and a goalless draw with Bournemouth, Chelsea dropped to fifth place in the Premier League standings.
The Blues go into Saturday’s home game eight points behind league leaders Arsenal but still within striking distance of the top four.
Chelsea’s inconsistent record at the Bridge is also a cause for concern against Everton.
The Blues tend to lose leads at home and have already dropped eight points from winning positions this season.
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But their home record against Everton has revived their hopes of victory.
Chelsea are unbeaten in their last 30 home league games against the Toffees (17 wins, 13 draws), a record that should give Maresca’s side the confidence to get back on track.
How Chelsea are ranked
Chelsea will be without six players for the match against Everton at the Bridge, but Enzo Maresca still has enough quality to confirm a strong starting XI.
Robert Sanchez, the PFA Premier League Fans’ Player of the Month for November, should find his place behind the back four of Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah and Marc Cucurella.
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Andre Santos will be eager to partner Enzo Fernandez in midfield after missing the past two games.
Cole Palmer should return to the starting lineup, with Alejandro Garnacho and Pedro Neto on the wings.
Joao Pedro should lead the way, while Liam Delap will spend some time on the sidelines.
