Chelsea v Man Utd team news: Palmer back, Lacroix a doubt and Mainoo returns to training

Chelsea welcome back Cole Palmer for Saturday’s lunchtime clash with Manchester United at Stamford Bridge, while Michael Carrick’s side get a lift with Kobbie Mainoo back in training. Here is the latest team news before the 12:30 kick-off.

Chelsea: Palmer returns, Lacroix assessed

Cole Palmer is available again after suspension, a big boost for Xabi Alonso. Defender Maxence Lacroix is being assessed after a hamstring problem, with Alonso saying “it’s too early to tell how serious it is”. Moises Caicedo (a minor knock) and Malo Gusto (cramp) both came off in midweek but have not been ruled out. João Pedro remains out.

United: Mainoo back, Fernandes in contention

Kobbie Mainoo has returned to training. “Kobbie has done a little bit of training yesterday,” Carrick said, though it is not yet clear if he will feature. Benjamin Šeško faces a longer absence with a shin injury and Manuel Ugarte is a long-term absentee. Captain Bruno Fernandes is available after his clear-the-air talks with Carrick.

The stakes

United are 16th with one league win and Carrick is under huge pressure after the 3-0 home defeat by Bournemouth. Chelsea are fifth on 13 points but lost 2-0 at home to Spurs last time out in the league. The bookmakers make Chelsea strong favourites.

Sources: Chelsea FC, Manchester United, Dave.sport. Team news can change after the final press conferences.

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