Leicester vs Chelsea: Preview, Prediction & Lineups

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The 2024/25 Premier League season resumes after the international break with an exciting clash at the King Power Stadium as Leicester City host Chelsea in Gameweek 12. Both teams are eager to bounce back and secure crucial points as they aim to meet contrasting seasonal objectives.

Leicester City’s Struggles

Leicester have hit a rough patch, going three games without a win after back-to-back victories temporarily lifted them out of the relegation zone. With 18th-placed Crystal Palace just three points behind, Steve Cooper’s side is in desperate need of a positive result. Injury concerns further complicate the Foxes’ preparation, with key players like Abdul Fatawu Issahaku ruled out for the season and other first-team regulars in doubt.

Chelsea’s Top-Four Push

Chelsea, on the other hand, have been steadily climbing the table under Enzo Maresca. The Blues have only one league defeat since their opening-day loss to Manchester City, sitting comfortably in third. Despite injury concerns around Cole Palmer, Wesley Fofana, and Romeo Lavia, the team is poised for another strong outing.

The most recent meeting between the two sides saw Chelsea claim a 3-1 victory at the King Power Stadium, a result they’ll aim to replicate this Saturday.

Leicester vs Chelsea Team News & Probable Lineups

Leicester City

Steve Cooper faces selection headaches, with multiple players unavailable. Vardy, however, is expected to return, leading the attack. Leicester will likely stick to a 4-3-3 setup, with Wilfred Ndidi anchoring the midfield and Harry Winks providing creativity.

Probable Lineup: Hermansen; Justin, Faes, Vestergaard, Kristiansen; Ndidi, Winks, Soumare; El Khannouss, Vardy, Mavididi

Chelsea

Enzo Maresca is set to welcome back Jadon Sancho and Malo Gusto, while Reece James is sidelined again with a hamstring injury. Cole Palmer, one of Chelsea’s standout players this season, is expected to feature despite a minor knock. Chelsea will field a familiar 4-2-3-1 formation, with Palmer orchestrating play as the no. 10.

Probable Lineup: Sanchez; Gusto, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Lavia; Madueke, Palmer, Neto; Jackson

Key Stats

Leicester have struggled against top-four teams recently, failing to win any of their last 13 matches (D3 L10).
Chelsea have won four of their last five Premier League games against Leicester, including their last two visits by a combined score of 6-1.
Cole Palmer has been directly involved in more goals following a ball carry this season (5) than any other Premier League player.
Wilfred Ndidi leads Leicester in touches in the opposition box (33) and assists (4) this season, showcasing his attacking influence from midfield.

Player to Watch: Cole Palmer

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This season, Palmer has been Chelsea’s creative engine, thriving under Maresca’s system. He’s poised to make a significant impact with five-goal contributions following ball carries and an outstanding record against promoted sides.