Why Cole Palmer Isn’t Playing for Chelsea vs. Liverpool—Carabao Cup
Palmer serves suspension
Palmer was dismissed in the 80th minute of Chelsea’s defeat to Tottenham Hotspur after receiving two yellow cards. The first followed an incident involving Mateus Fernandes; the second came when Palmer stepped on Conor Gallagher’s ankle.
The red card carries a one-game ban, which Palmer serves against Liverpool on Wednesday. He is expected to return for this weekend’s match with Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea face a tough test
Chelsea travel to Anfield for the Carabao Cup fourth round after losing 2–0 to Tottenham at the weekend. The defeat was the club’s first home loss of the Xabi Alonso era and its second league defeat to Spurs at Stamford Bridge in 36 years.
Liverpool enter the tie on a four-game winning streak. Chelsea advanced by beating Luton Town and then coming back strongly against Leeds United.
Options in attack
Alonso must also contend with the injury absence of João Pedro. Danny Welbeck is set to lead the line, with Morgan Rogers and Pedro Neto alongside him. Estêvão is among the substitutes again. Chelsea’s listed starting XI is Penders; Acheampong, Fofana, Lacroix and Gusto; Caicedo, Lavia and Henderson; Neto, Welbeck and Rogers.
Key points
- Cole Palmer is serving a one-game ban against Liverpool after his weekend red card.
- Chelsea visit Anfield for the Carabao Cup fourth round on Wednesday.
- Liverpool have won four games in a row.
- Palmer is expected to return for Chelsea’s match against Manchester United this weekend.