Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has named a strong starting XI for tonight’s FA Cup clash against Brighton, with Christopher Nkunku leading the attack in the absence of the injured Nicolas Jackson.
Despite expectations that youngsters Tyrique George and Josh Acheampong would start, both begin the match on the bench, while Moises Caicedo captains the side in the absence of Reece James and Enzo Fernandez.
Chelsea XI vs Brighton
Starting lineup: Sanchez; Gusto, Tosin, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo (C), Dewsbury-Hall; Neto, Palmer, Sancho; Nkunku.
Bench: Jorgensen, Colwill, Anselmino, Acheampong, Samuels-Smith, Amougou, Enzo Fernandez, Madueke.
Key Selections and Notable Omissions
- Nkunku Leads the Line – With Jackson unavailable, Nkunku is given the central role in attack, supported by Palmer and Sancho.
- Caicedo as Captain – With James not in the squad and Fernandez on the bench, the Ecuadorian midfielder takes the armband.
- Amougou & Anselmino on the Bench – Amougou, a January arrival, is among the substitutes, alongside Anselmino, who was recently recalled.
- Samuels-Smith Involved – The highly-rated left-back is included on the bench as he continues to push for a first-team breakthrough.
Maresca’s lineup signals a balance of experience and rotation, ensuring Chelsea remain competitive in what is expected to be a tough contest against a strong Brighton side.
More to come…
