Chelsea go in search of a much-needed lift as they host Brighton at Stamford Bridge this afternoon. It’s been two defeats and no goals scored since Frank Lampard took charge on an interim basis, with the Blues legend unable to inspire an immediate bounce at the club.
The Premier League campaign is already a write-off for Chelsea, so the focus is likely to be on the Champions League second-leg clash with Real Madrid in midweek. The Blues have a two-goal deficit to overturn in that match, so the likes of N’Golo Kane and Thiago Silva could be rested here with Real in mind.
Brighton suffered a frustrating afternoon in London last week when losing to Tottenham, but will be looking to put that right here. The Seagulls sit seventh in the table after a brilliant campaign to date, and European football next season is very much on the cards. Follow all the action with Standard Sport’s LIVE blog below, featuring expert analysis from Nizaar Kinsella at the ground.
Live updates
Chelsea team news
Kalidou Koulibaly was forced off with an injury in Madrid and will miss out against Brighton. Ben Chilwell was sent off in the match, but the suspension does not apply domestically and so he is available.
Lampard is set to rotate his side with the Premier League campaign a write-off, potentially saving the likes of N’Golo Kante and Thiago Silva for the second leg against Real.
Predicted Chelsea XI: Kepa; James, Fofana, Badiashile, Chilwell; Gallagher, Enzo, Mount; Sterling, Havertz, Mudryk
How to watch Chelsea vs Brighton
TV channel and live stream: The game will not be broadcast in the UK as it takes place during the blackout imposed across English football.
Highlights: Match of the Day will show highlights when it airs at 10.30pm on BBC One on Saturday.
LIVE coverage: Follow all the action right here, with Nizaar Kinsella will be providing expert analysis from the ground.
Good afternoon!
Hello and welcome to Standard Sport’s LIVE coverage of Chelsea vs Brighton!
The Blues are still looking for their first win since Frank Lampard returned to the club, and it won’t easily come here with one eye on Real Madrid and the opposition an in-form Brighton side.
We’ll have all the latest updates, build-up and team news ahead of kick-off, which comes at 3pm BST from Stamford Bridge.
