Palmer, Caicedo, Joao Pedro return as Chelsea face Bournemouth
Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro have returned to Chelsea’s starting line-up for their Premier League meeting with Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge, as Xabi Alonso makes three changes to his side.
Chelsea resume their league campaign after a three-week interruption caused by the extended international break.
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The Blues are looking to return to winning ways after their previous outing against Brentford, while Bournemouth arrive still searching for their first top-flight victory of the season.
Palmer’s return comes shortly after he signed a new Chelsea contract running until 2034, underlining the club’s long-term commitment to the England international.
Caicedo returns as Henderson makes home debut
Moises Caicedo also earns his first start of the season after recovering from injury, providing Chelsea with a boost in midfield.
He is partnered by Jordan Henderson, who makes his Stamford Bridge bow as Alonso reshapes his team for the contest.
Joao Pedro is another notable inclusion, returning to the starting XI after missing Chelsea’s trip to Brentford. He joins Palmer, Morgan Rogers and Pedro Neto in an attacking line-up expected to provide greater threat in the final third.
Emi Martinez retains his place in goal, with Josh Acheampong, Maxence Lacroix, Levi Colwill and Pep Chavarria forming the back four. Colwill captains the side.
Chelsea starting XI and substitutes
Starting XI: Martinez; Acheampong, Lacroix, Colwill (captain), Chavarria; Henderson, Caicedo; Neto, Palmer, Rogers; Joao Pedro.
Substitutes: Penders, Fofana, Gusto, Hato, Palestra, Lavia, Estevao, Quenda, Welbeck.