Chelsea vs Brentford: Predicted lineup today and confirmed team news

Palmer hoping to return from his latest injury today (Picture: Getty)

Chelsea hope to have Cole Palmer and Reece James available for their Premier League clash at home to Brentford this afternoon.

The Blues duo have missed both of Liam Rosenior ’s first two games in charge at Stamford Bridge, ruled out of the FA Cup third round win over Charlton before also sitting out of the Carabao Cup showdown with Arsenal.

Palmer has been dealing with a chronic groin issue for much of the season but that was not the reason behind his latest absences having picked up a minor thigh strain.

Both he and James returned to training on Thursday and will be expected to make the squad for the visit of the Bees.

Malo Gusto has also missed the last two matches, remaining a doubt for today’s game.

Liam Delap and Jamie Gittens are two further doubts after picking up a virus that has been going around at Cobham, also affecting several members of staff.

Moises Caicedo sat out of the 3-2 defeat to the Gunners as he served his third suspension of the season .

Our journalists work hard to deliver the most important stories from around the world

Garnacho scored two goals off the bench midweek (Picture: Getty)

He is expected to return to the side today to partner Enzo Fernandez in midfield.

James’ availability should see him reclaim his spot at right-back with Palmer slotting back into his no10 role.

Alejandro Garnacho meanwhile will surely have forced his way into the starting XI after coming off the bench to score twice against Arsenal.

Rosenior has named Marc Guiu up front in each of his two games at the helm with Joao Pedro taking up a deeper role midweek. But should Palmer start, the Brazil international could be pushed up top again.

Chelsea vs Brentford kicks off today (Saturday 17 January) at 3pm.