Sky Sports pundit Ron Walker highlighted a surprising Chelsea starting line-up for the Fulham clash, largely due to the absence of Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez. Fernandez, returning late from World Cup exploits with Argentina, faces questions about his future after Chelsea rebuffed Manchester City's bid. Without that midfield pairing, Reece James and Romeo Lavia start in midfield, while Josh Acheampong starts at centre-back in a 3-4-3 formation.

Marco Palestra is also absent, presumably injured, with Jorrel Hato stepping in at left wing-back. Hato's inclusion is less surprising given his previous experience on the left of midfield, including a start in the FA Cup win at Wrexham last season. Fans await live score updates and team news as the London derby unfolds.