Chelsea team news vs Brighton: Predicted line up – Striker decision, Eden Hazard returns

CHELSEA are set to welcome Eden Hazard back to their starting line-up ahead of today's Premier League clash with Brighton & Hove Albion (1.30pm).

Chelsea players arrive at Brighton FC for Premier League clash

Eden Hazard is expected to return to the Chelsea side ahead of their Premier League meeting with Brighton at the Amex Stadium.

The Belgian ace was rested for the Europa League dead rubber against MOL Vidi on Thursday but should be restored to the starting XI.

Maurizio Sarri fielded a much-changed side in the but is expected to revert to the same players that beat Manchester City so impressively last weekend.

Hazard started as a lone striker in the 2-0 victory, flanked by Pedro and Willian in advanced midfield roles.

Alvaro Morata got the nod up front due to Hazard’s absence in midweek, although the Spaniard is a doubt to face the Seagulls after picking up a knee injury.

When asked if there was any update on Morata’s injury, Sarri said: ”No.

“The first impression of the doctor maybe it is not a serious injury.

“But of course with this situation we have to wait and wait until tomorrow I think to see if the situation is serious."

Chelsea team news predicted line up Brighton

Chelsea team news: Eden Hazard is expected to return against Brighton (Image: GETTY)

Chelsea team news predicted line up Brighton

Chelsea team news: The Belgian was rested against MOL Vidi in midweek (Image: GETTY)

is another option in attack but Hazard is the favourite to lead the line on the south coast.

Mateo Kovacic should return in midfield alongside Jorginho and N’Golo Kante, although Ross Barkley and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are in contention.

In defence, David Luiz and Antonio Rudiger are Sarri’s preferred centre-back pairing while Marcos Alonso and Cesar Azpilicueta will earn recalls.

Gary Cahill and Victor Moses both missed the trip to Budapest but are unlikely to feature while Kep Arrizabalaga will replace Willy Caballero in goal.

Chelsea team news predicted line up Brighton

Chelsea team news: Is this how Maurizio Sarri's side will line up against Brighton? (Image: buildlineup.com)

Chelsea predicted line-up vs Brighton & Hove Albion – Premier League

(4-3-3): Arrizabalaga; Azpilicueta, Ruidger, Luiz, Alonso; Jorginho, Kante, Kovacic; Pedro, Willian, Hazard

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