Chelsea will face Shamrock Rovers in an anticipated Europa Conference League match on December 19, 2024. Chelsea has already secured a place in the last-16, aiming to solidify their top position within the group. With an impressive record of five consecutive victories in the group stage, including a streak of seven wins overall, Chelsea appears to be in formidable form . In contrast, Shamrock Rovers remain unbeaten throughout their group matches but are set to encounter a significantly stronger opponent .
Enzo Maresca will field a much-changed XI on Thursday in what should be an eighth successive victory in all competitions.
Irish side Shamrock Rovers remain unbeaten in the league phase but can only guarantee direct passage to the last 16 with victory on Thursday. They are certain of a place in the play-offs, however, following three wins and two draws.
Chelsea possible starting lineup: Jorgensen; Vale, Disasi, Acheampong, Cucurella; Casadei, Dewsbury-Hall; George, Nkunku, Joao Felix; Marc Guiu
Shamrock Rovers possible starting lineup: Pohls; Cleary, Lopes, Grace; Honohan, O'Neill, Poom, Watts, Burns; Farrugia, Kenny
Youngster Josh Acheampong should get another opportunity to impress at right-back after finally putting pen to paper on a new long-term contract on Wednesday, while fellow academy graduate Tyrique George will hope for more involvement, off the bench at least.
Watch live Chelsea vs Shamrock Rovers
Cesare Casadei is available again after serving a one-match suspension against Astana. Marc Cucurella is suspended for Sunday’s Everton game but it remains to be seen whether Maresca uses that as reason to start the Spaniard on Thursday.
Predicted lineups indicate that Chelsea may utilize a mix of fringe players and academy prospects due to their secured advancement . The expected formation includes Jorgensen as goalkeeper and a backline comprising Acheampong, Adarabioyo, and Disasi. Midfielders Dewsbury-Hall and Casadei are likely to control the midfield while wingers George and Nkunku provide width. Meanwhile, Shamrock Rovers is predicted to employ a more traditional setup with two forwards in Kenny and Farrugia.
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