Chelsea vs West Ham: Predicted lineup today and confirmed team news

Cole Palmer is in line to return to the Chelsea starting XI against West Ham United this evening.

The England international was sensational off the bench in the Champions League midweek against Napoli, setting up both goals for Joao Pedro as the Blues sealed a huge victory in Italy.

Palmer’s injury issues this season have been carefully managed by Chelsea and while Liam Rosenior warned this week the club must continue to ‘look after him’, he all but confirmed his place in the side today.

 ‘[He’s] absolutely fine,’ Rosenior said on Friday.

‘He’s available to start tomorrow, so I’m really happy about that – like I am when any player’s available to start.’

Palmer has completed a full 90 minutes on just four occasions this season.

Chelsea are still without Dario Essugo after his recent setback while Romeo Lavia is another still unavailable alongside long-term absentee Levi Colwill.

Tosin Adarabioyo was back in training this week following his hamstring injury but is not thought to be in contention to return today.

Chelsea XI to face West Ham – Metro prediction

With Reece James playing the full 90 minutes in Naples midweek, another start could be unlikely, particularly with the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg with Arsenal looming next week.

Chelsea vs West Ham TV channel, live stream and kick-off time

Chelsea vs West Ham kicks off at 5:30pm today (Saturday 31 January).

You can watch the match live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event with streaming also available through the Sky Go app and NOW TV for subscribers.