Cole Palmer Returns: Predicted Chelsea XI vs Tottenham in Final Home Game
Chelsea host Spurs in their last home match of the season. McFarlane makes key changes with Cole Palmer and Reece James returning to the starting XI.
Chelsea face Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night in what will be their final home outing of the 2025/26 Premier League season. With a London Derby on the cards, manager James McFarlane is expected to make two changes to the side that drew 1-1 with Brighton last weekend.
Key Duo Return
Cole Palmer is set to make his long-awaited return to the starting lineup after recovering from a minor knock. The England international has been sorely missed, with Chelsea lacking creativity in the final third in recent weeks. Alongside him, Reece James is also back in contention after being rested against Brighton. The captain’s return bolsters Chelsea’s right flank, providing both defensive solidity and attacking thrust.
McFarlane’s Tactical Tweak
McFarlane has hinted at a more aggressive approach against Spurs, who are fighting for European qualification. The predicted XI sees a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Palmer operating as a number 10 behind striker Nicolas Jackson. Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo will anchor the midfield, while the back four of James, Thiago Silva, Benoît Badiashile, and Ben Chilwell is expected to start ahead of goalkeeper Robert Sánchez.
The only other change from the Brighton draw is the inclusion of Mykhailo Mudryk on the left wing, replacing Raheem Sterling, who has struggled for form. Mudryk’s pace and directness could be key against Spurs’ high defensive line.
Predicted Chelsea XI
- Goalkeeper: Robert Sánchez
- Defenders: Reece James, Thiago Silva, Benoît Badiashile, Ben Chilwell
- Midfielders: Enzo Fernández, Moisés Caicedo
- Attacking Midfielders: Mykhailo Mudryk, Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke
- Striker: Nicolas Jackson
Spurs Test
Tottenham arrive at Stamford Bridge with their own ambitions, but Chelsea will be determined to give their home fans a winning send-off. With Palmer and James back, the Blues look significantly stronger. The midfield battle will be crucial, as Spurs’ James Maddison and Pape Matar Sarr pose a creative threat. McFarlane will hope his men can harness the home crowd and secure three points to finish the season on a high.
Kick-off is at 20:15 BST, live on Sky Sports. Stick with LA Premier League for post-match analysis and player ratings.